The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, asserted that a military solution in the Gaza Strip would be insufficient if it does not lead to a political project.
In an article published by the French newspaper “Le Monde,” Borrell highlighted three priorities that currently need attention: preventing the escalation of conflict to Lebanon at all costs, releasing hostages, and paving the way for crisis resolution.
Borrell wrote, “More than three months after the tragedy of October 7, I returned from the Middle East concerned about the seriousness of the situation, but more determined than ever to voice balance, reason, and realism. If the problems are complex, war will only be inevitable for those who have a political interest in perpetuating it.”
Regarding the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, Borrell stated, “The humanitarian conditions are appalling.”
“More than 80% of the population has been internally displaced within Gaza. The immediate priority is to prevent further forced displacement out of the sector, which would be de facto expulsion. This act is not only illegal under international law but also ethically unacceptable.”
Borrell also pointed out that “near the city of Rafah, on the Egyptian border, over 250,000 people are currently living in inhumane conditions.”
“We must alleviate their suffering by speeding up the entry of food supplies and thus trucks into Gaza. As we know, an insufficient number of trucks is allowed entry, and their entry faces difficulties due to burdensome controls, as observed on the ground by U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, as well as due to security conditions. This is why de-escalating the fighting and then suspending it is essential,” he added.
Borrell further commented, “We must also contribute to a gradual return to a cash economy if we do not want the population to remain completely reliant on international aid for survival.”
He emphasized that “resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the sole barrier preventing full normalization between the Arab states and Israel,” affirming that “there is a real possibility to turn this tragedy into an opportunity.”
