BRUSSELS, May 7, 2025 (WAFA) – The European Commission said today that using aid as a tool of war is prohibited under International Humanitarian Law, calling on Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza immediately.
In a joint statement by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica, and European Commissioner for Equality Hadja Lahbib, said no humanitarian supplies have entered Gaza for over two months.
“This is the longest such closure the Strip has ever faced and a matter of grave concern. UN agencies, including WFP and UNRWA, report that food stocks are now exhausted and most households lack safe water. Looting of warehouses has restarted. Humanitarians continue to warn that hunger is spreading and deepening in the enclave,” according to the statement.
The EU reiterated its urgent call on Israel to lift the blockade on Gaza immediately, adding that tons of aid, representing supplies for 3 months for the population of 2.2 million, are waiting at the border.
“Once the blockade is lifted, the nutrition situation could improve very quickly. As the occupying power, Israel is obliged under international law to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches the population in need,” the statement said.
The EU also expressed concern over the new ‘Gaza aid delivery mechanism' reportedly approved by the Israeli security cabinet on 4 May, which runs counter to humanitarian principles, as underlined by UN agencies and humanitarian partners.
“The mechanism would shift the responsibility for the distribution of aid to non-humanitarian international actors and private security contractors,” according to the statement.
“Our message is clear: humanitarian aid must never be politicised or militarised. Using aid as a tool of war is prohibited under International Humanitarian Law. Aid must reach civilians in need.”
The EU also urged Israel to act on the basis of the UN proposals under the 2720 mechanism and to ensure full respect of international humanitarian law and of the core principles of humanitarian action — humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence, by constructively discussing with the UN and designated NGOs.
The EU repeated its call for a resumption of the ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages, leading to a permanent end to hostilities, the statement added.
Since March 2, the Israeli occupation has closed the Gaza Strip's crossings to the entry of food, relief, medical aid, and goods, causing a significant deterioration in the humanitarian situation of citizens.
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