The European Commission called on Israel on Wednesday to immediately lift the blockade on the Gaza Strip, stating that humanitarian aid has not reached Palestinians for more than two months, in clear violation of international humanitarian law.

This came in a joint statement issued by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaya Kallas, EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica, and EU Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality Hadja Lahbib.

The statement stressed that "the situation in Gaza is extremely worrying," as no humanitarian aid has reached the Strip for more than two months, noting that this is "the longest period of siege" the region has witnessed.

The statement drew attention to reports issued by UN organizations indicating that food stocks in Gaza have run out and that Palestinians are facing difficulties in accessing drinking water, while humanitarian relief organizations warn of a worsening and widespread famine.

He explained that tons of humanitarian aid remain stuck at the Gaza Strip border, awaiting entry, noting that it is sufficient to meet the needs of the 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza for three months.

The statement affirmed that "the European Union reiterates its urgent call for Israel to immediately lift the blockade on the Gaza Strip," recalling that Israel is obligated under international law to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches civilians in need.

"Our message is clear: humanitarian aid should never be politicized or turned into a military tool. The use of aid as a means of war is prohibited under international humanitarian law," the commission said.

The statement reiterated the European Union's call for a "ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners, and a permanent end to the conflict," stressing its "steadfast support" for the rights of the Palestinian people.

Since March 2, Israel 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 for Palestinians, according to government, human rights, and international reports.

Since October 7, 2023, the Israeli occupation, with American support, has been committing genocidal crimes in Gaza, leaving more than 171,000 Palestinians dead and wounded, most of them children and women, and more than 11,000 missing.