Belgium, EU Commission issue 'emergency call for action' over situation of Gazan children

LONDON

The Belgian Presidency of the EU and the European Commission on Wednesday called for action over the continued "deteriorating humanitarian situation" for children in Gaza.

In a joint statement, the Belgian presidency and the EU Commission said up to 70% of Palestinians killed are women and children, with more than 11,682 children reportedly injured, and thousands more missing.

"This situation has led to many children suffering from psychological trauma. UNICEF estimates that more than 1 million children are in need of psychological support," noted the statement.

Stressing that children suffer the most in all wars, but international law should be respected, it noted that there should be "unconditional release of all children held by Hamas."

"We call for an immediate and long-lasting humanitarian pause that would lead to a sustainable ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas, especially children, and the provision of humanitarian assistance," it added.