Spain and five other countries jointly condemn the latest Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip

We reiterate that the intensification of military operations will endanger the lives of hostages cruelly held by Hamas and lead to the intolerable death of innocent Palestinian civilians, including women, children and the elderly. We also denounce the forced displacement of Palestinians, which is a flagrant violation of international law.

This new offensive opens a new phase of uncertainty and intolerable suffering for both sides. The systematic destruction of essential civilian infrastructure, including places of refuge for extremely vulnerable displaced civilians, is unacceptable. We urge the Israeli Government to immediately reconsider its decision and cease operations. This spiral of violence must end.

We are horrified by the confirmation by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification of the famine in Gaza Governorate and the expectation that it will spread to surrounding areas in the coming weeks. We urge Israel to comply with its humanitarian obligations under international law. The humanitarian situation remains critical and must be addressed immediately. UN agencies and NGOs must be allowed to operate fully on the ground to alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe, in accordance with humanitarian principles. Immediate and large-scale humanitarian action is needed.

We also take this opportunity to express our deepest concern about the expansion of settlement construction in the West Bank, which is illegal under international law. We urge Israel to reverse its decision. We are also alarmed by the actions of violent settlers, who seem to act with impunity. The ongoing military operations in both Gaza and the West Bank represent a serious obstacle to the implementation of the two-state solution, which is the only path to lasting peace.

The international community will not remain silent in the face of human rights violations, and we will continue to work hard for peace. We will continue to support mediation efforts, and urge both sides to reach a permanent ceasefire agreement that will pave the way for peace. We also continue to call for the immediate release of all hostages and the rapid and unimpeded entry of large-scale humanitarian aid throughout Gaza. We all need peace and stability to return to the region.

Non official translation