Peace, Aid, release of hostages and a Two-State solution are the only way forward in Gaza

While Israel has the right to defend itself under international law, any response must fully respect international humanitarian law, EPP Group MEPs underlined during the Plenary debate on Gaza.

“We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of the Hamas-held hostages, and unhindered flow of food supplies and humanitarian aid for the people in Gaza. There must be no enforced evacuation of civilian Gaza City inhabitants,” stressed Michael Gahler MEP, the EPP Group’s Rapporteur on Gaza.

With Gaza on the brink of collapse, Hamas continues to exploit civilians as human shields, knowing Israel’s reaction was inevitable. Protecting the Palestinians and ensuring them access to food, clean water, medicine, and safe housing remains essential.

Antonio López-Istúriz, the EPP Group’s Spokesman on Israel, underlined: “Our priority remains the safety, integrity, and dignity of civilians. The hostages violently taken in captivity, dozens believed to have been killed by Hamas terrorists, must be released immediately. The Palestinian population in Gaza must be protected and have access to enough food supplies, clean water, medicines, and safe housing. This conflict can and should end as soon as possible so we can return to a two-state path and finally achieve lasting peace and prosperity for all in the region.”

The EPP Group insists that humanitarian aid must continue, stressing that the people of Gaza cannot be forced to pay the price of Hamas’ actions. Aid deliveries must proceed in line with international law. The Group also reaffirms its commitment to a lasting peace through a viable two-state solution and condemns Israel’s decision to expand settlements occupied West Bank, calling them illegal and a serious obstacle to peace.