Borrell Advocates for Ceasefire in Gaza Amid Rising Tensions
European Union foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, has called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip following the assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Yahya Sinwar. Speaking at a G7 defense ministers meeting in Naples, Italy, Borrell emphasized the need to seize the current political moment to facilitate a ceasefire and the release of remaining Israeli hostages. He stated, "After the killing of Sinwar, there is a new scene and we must exploit it to reach a ceasefire, release the remaining hostages and look for a political horizon."
Strengthening UNIFIL's Role in Lebanon
In addition to advocating for a ceasefire, Borrell highlighted the necessity of strengthening the mandate of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He noted that UNIFIL's current role is limited and cannot operate independently, suggesting that an expanded mandate would require a decision from the UN Security Council. Borrell remarked on the potential for change in Lebanon’s political landscape, stating, "There is a new political context in Lebanon, full of risks, but also potentially leading to change."
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Borrell also addressed the dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, which he described as reaching its worst levels ever. He urged for the opening of channels to allow more humanitarian support into Gaza, underlining the urgency of the situation. He reiterated the importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to maintain a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, emphasizing that the ongoing conflict undermines Lebanon's sovereignty by external actors.
