Statement from 27 countries: The suffering in Gaza has reached "unimaginable levels"

SadaNews - Britain, Canada, Australia, and European allies said on Tuesday that the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip has reached "unimaginable levels," calling on Israel to allow aid into the Palestinian territory.

Foreign ministers from these countries stated in a joint statement published by Britain: "Famine is unfolding before our eyes. Urgent action is needed to end hunger."

The statement added: "We call on the Israeli government to allow the entry of all shipments of international aid for non-governmental organizations and not to obstruct the work of key actors in the aid sector."

They emphasized the necessity of never politicizing aid.

The statement was signed by 27 partners, including Britain, Australia, Canada, France, Japan, and the European Union.

It noted Israeli actions to try to force key international NGOs to leave the occupied Palestinian territories soon, worsening the humanitarian situation.

The Israeli government was called upon to grant permits for all shipments of international non-governmental aid and to remove obstacles preventing essential humanitarian actors from working. It affirmed: "Immediate, permanent, and tangible steps must be taken to facilitate safe and extensive access for the United Nations, international NGOs, and humanitarian partners."

It added: "All crossings and routes must be used to allow the flow of aid to Gaza, including food, food supplies, shelter, fuel, clean water, medicines, and medical equipment. Lethal force must not be used at distribution sites, and civilians, humanitarian workers, and medical personnel must be protected."

The statement praised the efforts of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt in pushing for a ceasefire and seeking peace.

It said: "We need a ceasefire that ends the war, releases hostages, and allows aid into Gaza by land without obstacles."