BRUSSELS: European Commission President Usrula von der Leyen is due to travel to Cyprus later this week as the bloc is working towards establishing a possible humanitarian aid corridor in support of the Palestinian population in Gaza through the Mediterranean island, her spokesperson said.
Amid escalating tensions and humanitarian concerns in Gaza, both the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) are exploring avenues to provide aid to the besieged territory.
During her visit to Cyprus, Ursula von der Leyen will hold talks on establishing a maritime humanitarian corridor to support the population in Gaza. The EU aims to provide aid directly to Palestinians, with hopes of opening the corridor in the near future, according to a spokesperson.
UNRWA Emphasizes Aid Delivery to Gaza Through Land Crossings
However, UNRWA’s spokesperson emphasized the importance of utilizing existing land crossings, such as Karem Abu Salem and Rafah from Egypt, to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Instead of creating new channels, the agency advocates for leveraging established routes that have proven effective in the past.
Meanwhile, the Palestinian foreign ministry has accused Israel of exacerbating the situation by escalating bombardments in the northern Gaza Strip, leading to widespread displacement and food insecurity.
In Cairo, international mediators are engaged in talks with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas to broker a truce deal with Israel. US President Joe Biden has urged for an agreement before the start of Ramadan, prompting a series of negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire, the exchange of hostages, and increased aid access to Gaza.
While Hamas has shown flexibility in negotiations, Israeli negotiators have abstained from the talks, citing the absence of a list detailing living hostages. Despite the setback, discussions continue with the involvement of Qatari and Egyptian mediators to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
