EU Announces 'Full Support' for US Proposal to Halt Hostilities in Gaza; Beneficial for the Region and the World

On June 5, the European Union issued a statement expressing 'full support' for the comprehensive roadmap proposed by US President Joe Biden, stating that this plan would lead to a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and an increase in humanitarian aid. In its statement, the EU expressed regret over the civilian casualties in the Gaza conflict, noting: 'The unconditional and immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas, as well as the increase in the flow of humanitarian aid needed by the people of Gaza, requires a sustainable ceasefire, and the US President's plan can guarantee peace and stability in the Middle East for both nations and globally.' The EU also appreciated the ongoing efforts of the US, Egypt, and Qatar in facilitating negotiations to end the war between Israel and Hamas while ensuring Israel's security, urging both sides to accept this three-phase proposal and participate in reviving a political process for sustainable peace based on a two-state solution. On June 2, President Biden announced a new multi-phase proposal to end the war in Gaza, stating that if this agreement succeeds, 'Israel could become part of a regional security network to counter Iran's threats.' He added: 'This is an agreement that brings all hostages home, guarantees Israel's security, creates a better situation for Gaza post-Hamas, and lays the groundwork for a political solution and a better future for both Israelis and Palestinians.' During the October 7 terrorist attack by Palestinian militants in southern Israel, 1,200 people, mostly civilians including women, children, and the elderly, were killed, and 253 others were taken hostage to the Gaza Strip. Currently, about 120 hostages remain in the hands of Palestinian militants. Israel states it will continue its battle in Gaza until the complete destruction of the extremist Islamist group Hamas. The Hamas group, which is supported by the Islamic Republic, has repeatedly opposed ceasefire proposals and the release of hostages. Efforts to stop the war in Gaza; Sullivan: There is no alternative to a sustainable ceasefire. The largest coalition partner of Netanyahu supported a potential agreement for the release of hostages. Reuters' assessment of the intensification of missile attacks by Iraqi Shiite militants on Israel indicates that it is not beneficial for any party. Israeli intelligence assessments indicate that more than a third of the hostages have died; signs of execution were found in the bodies of some hostages. Israel claims to have thwarted a 'bombing plot' by Hamas from within Turkey. UNRWA announced that over one million people have left Rafah. Gallant: Israel is considering potential alternatives to Hamas.