Notable statement from the EU: We are not calling for a ceasefire

The European Union (EU) has announced that it will not call for a ceasefire at this stage in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Speaking at a press conference regarding the situation in Gaza, EU Commission spokesperson Peter Stano stated, "There is no call for a ceasefire from the EU at this stage."

Stating that the reason for this is the continuation of Hamas's attacks on Israel, Stano noted that in addition to continuing its attacks, Hamas is holding more than 200 hostages.

Stano said, "Hamas's attack on Israel is ongoing. In this situation, the EU's current position is this: we stand with Israel, and Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorist attacks. We also emphasize that this must be done within the framework of international humanitarian law."

'HUMANITARIAN PAUSE' DEBATE

In addition to not calling for a ceasefire, the EU has not yet made any call for a pause in hostilities to ensure that humanitarian aid can reach Gaza.

At the EU Foreign Ministers' Meeting held on Monday, the issue of a "humanitarian pause" in the conflict was discussed, but no such call was issued. It was reported that some EU countries had reservations regarding a call for a humanitarian pause.

Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated that support within the EU for a "humanitarian pause" is growing.