BRUSSELS, January 16, 2025 (WAFA) – Following meetings between Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and EU officials in Brussels, the European Union announced today a new humanitarian aid package worth €120 million to support Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing challenges in the region.

Speaking at a press conference in Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated, “The ceasefire agreement and the release of [detainees] represent a much-needed glimmer of hope in the region, but the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.”

EU Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, also commented on the issue after meeting with Prime Minister Mustafa, saying, “We discussed the immense needs in Gaza and the West Bank and the ways to address them.” Lenarčič announced plans to visit the Palestinian territories soon to assess the situation firsthand.

With this new package, the EU’s total humanitarian aid to Gaza since 2023 surpasses €450 million, complemented by an airlift that has delivered over 3,800 tons of aid.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners on the ground to ensure rapid delivery of aid to those in need.

The newly announced package includes food assistance to combat acute food insecurity and malnutrition, support for healthcare facilities to maintain operations and supplies, and measures to improve water and sanitation services to provide clean water and safe hygiene practices. 

Additionally, it includes provisions for safe shelters for displaced individuals who have lost their homes due to the recent escalation.

“The EU will continue to stand by the Palestinian people,” von der Leyen emphasized, adding that the €120 million aid package for 2025 will also include hundreds of tons of in-kind assistance to sustain support for the population.

M.N