Kaja Kallas, the European Union foreign policy chief, expressed deep concern over the alarming escalation in Gaza, stressing the urgent need for negotiations to end the conflict. Following a wave of IDF airstrikes, she called for talks to resume in light of the intensifying violence in the Israel-Hamas war.
In a briefing in Jerusalem with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Kallas stated, “Violence feeds more violence,” highlighting the devastating impact on hostages and the Palestinian people.
Sa’ar asserted that the “war can end tomorrow” if key conditions are met, including the release of hostages held by Hamas and the demilitarisation of Gaza. He acknowledged the preference for diplomatic solutions but noted that military operations would continue if necessary.
The ceasefire established in January temporarily quelled the violence following Hamas’s attack on 7 October 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and 251 hostages taken. Although some hostages have been released through negotiations, many still await a resolution.
Kallas urged that “resuming negotiations is the only viable path to alleviating suffering.” She reaffirmed the EU’s stance against Hamas’s role in Gaza’s governance and expressed a willingness to engage in discussions to work toward lasting peace in the region.
