Germany, France, and Great Britain have called on Israel to lift all restrictions on humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza."The humanitarian catastrophe we are currently witnessing in the Gaza Strip must end now," declared German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. They also called for an immediate ceasefire and the"unconditional" release of all Hamas hostages.

Merz, Macron, and Starmer also sharply criticized statements by Israeli government officials regarding the possible annexation of Palestinian territories."We firmly reject any efforts to impose Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territories," the joint statement read. The leaders further stated:"Threats of annexation, settlement construction, and acts of violence by settlers against Palestinians undermine the prospects for a negotiated two-state solution."

Germany, France, and Great Britain remain committed to working with international partners to develop a"concrete and credible plan for the next phase in the Gaza Strip." This plan must include "transitional arrangements for governance and security" and be accompanied by the "withdrawal of Israeli forces and the removal of the Hamas leadership."

Pressure on Israel increases

British Prime Minister Starmer announced on Thursday that he would hold a crisis meeting with Merz and Macron on the situation the following day. The talks would focus on supplying food to the people in the Gaza Strip and finding solutions for a"lasting peace," Starmer explained.

Israel has come under increasing pressure in recent days due to the devastating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. More than 100 aid organizations have warned of"mass starvation" in the Palestinian territory.

Israel rejects the criticism. The government accuses Hamas of obstructing the distribution of aid in the Gaza Strip, looting humanitarian supplies itself, selling food at inflated prices, and shooting at those seeking aid.

Qatar and Egypt see progress in ceasefire talks

Qatar and Egypt report some progress in the latest round of ceasefire talks in the Gaza Strip. A pause in the negotiations to hold consultations before resuming talks is normal within the context of these complex negotiations, say Qatar and Egypt, which are mediating in the conflict. The mediators reaffirm their commitment to continue their efforts to reach a comprehensive ceasefire agreement in partnership with the United States.