On Thursday, European legislators passed a significant resolution advocating for a definitive halt to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. This resolution, a product of intricate negotiations and diverse viewpoints within the European Union, emphasizes the precondition that Hamas, officially recognized as a terrorist organization by the EU, must be disbanded. Additionally, it demands the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals held captive by Hamas.
#Breaking: The EU Parliament today passed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and humanitarian aid.
ā Open Source Intel (@Osint613) January 18, 2024
AGAINST:
š¦š¹ Austria
šØšæ Czech Republic
ABSTAIN:
š©šŖ Germany
ššŗ Hungary
š®š¹ Italy
š±š¹ Lithuania
š³š± Netherlands
š·š“ Romania
šøš° Slovakia
šøšŖ Sweden
FOR:
š§šŖ Belgium
š§š¬ā¦ pic.twitter.com/cuPBTkb6Y5
The resolution, while symbolic and non-binding, marks a notable stance by the EU Parliament. Garnering 312 votes in favor, against 131, and with 72 abstentions, it highlights the first instance the Parliament has called for a ceasefire in this context, following an October agreement on a 'humanitarian pause.'
The amendment, a critical part of the resolution, unequivocally calls for the release of all hostages and the dismantling of Hamas. It reflects the complex situation in Gaza, where Palestinian militants continue to resist amidst a devastating military campaign. The conflict has resulted in over 24,400 Palestinian casualties, displacement of a significant portion of Gaza's population, and severe humanitarian challenges, as reported by the United Nations.
Dearest EU parliament,
ā Rachel Yadin ×Ø×× ×××ךš®š±Ų±Ų§Ų“ŁŁ ŁŲ§ŲÆŁŁ (@27kislev5719) January 18, 2024
If you could, try and find a way to get the ESSENTIAL medicines to the INNOCENT ISRAELI HOSTAGES? I mean, since 7 October they've been without their medicines.
At that very least, we might be swayed by your
humanitarian instinct for those caught in war. https://t.co/0iJKQiUk0X pic.twitter.com/qpzkFieBZy
Israel's commitment to disbanding Hamas is driven by the need to prevent future attacks, such as the significant incursion on October 7, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, primarily civilians, and the capture of about 250 individuals by militants.
The EU's struggle to balance condemnation of Hamas, support for Israel's self-defense, and protection of civilian rights under international law is evident in this resolution. It also underscores the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza and the need to reinvigorate the stalled two-state solution and address the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
