EU commissioner says her journey to Gaza via Rafah crossing not granted by Israel

ISTANBUL/BRUSSELS

EU Commissioner for Equality and Acting Commissioner for Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib announced Friday that she wanted to cross into the Gaza Strip during her visit to Egypt, but Israel did not grant her permission.

Noting that Palestinians are being killed every day in Gaza and two children lose their lives daily, Lahbib said since the start of the recent ceasefire, 347 Palestinians, including 67 children, have been killed.

Stating that she had planned to cross the border to see the situation "firsthand," Lahbib said Israel's refusal to grant permission "deeply saddened us."

Emphasizing that Gaza has turned into a graveyard for thousands, including humanitarian aid workers, Lahbib noted that around 600 aid workers trying to save lives while simply doing their jobs have been killed in what has become the most dangerous place in the world.

Noting that with winter approaching, Palestinians have no place to go and no means to stay warm, Lahbib pointed out experts' remarks on the situation, that winter will be "disastrous."

Reiterating that the ceasefire must continue, Lahbib stressed that full compliance with the ceasefire and respect for international law is the only way to protect civilians.

Lahbib stated that it is necessary to move from the first phase of the phased ceasefire to the second, and Hamas must be disarmed and the remaining hostages returned.

She said aid has begun to reach people and that this is a step forward, but only a very small portion of the need is being met.

She urged Israel to allow NGOs to carry out their work, stressing the need for procedures to be faster.

She noted that even some tents and sleeping bags are classified as “dual-use” --items that can be used for civilian and military purposes -- calling it unacceptable.

Pointing out that the EU has responsibilities to its taxpayers on the assistance it provides, she underlined that aid must reach those who need it.

She also urged Gaza to move out of survival mode and "turn this sea of rubble back into homes and schools,” as she thanked Egypt for its efforts.

As part of her contacts in Egypt, Lahbib visited the city of El Arish.

She toured a warehouse filled with aid waiting to be sent to Gaza and visited a hospital where patients evacuated from the enclave were being treated.