European Parliament Calls For Unconditional ‘Immediate and Permanent’ Ceasefire In Gaza
The European Parliament voted in favour of an “immediate and permanent” ceasefire in Gaza, during a plenary session in Strasbourg last Wednesday.
On 18th January, the institution voted in favour of a permanent ceasefire, making it conditional on the release of Israeli hostages and the dismantling of Hamas.
Earlier this week, upon a request from members of the Left group in the parliament, the 67th article of the Human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union’s policy on the matter, annual report for 2023 was amended to include the call for an “immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, allowing uninterrupted access to food and water for its inhabitants”.
“We have opened a breach. Let’s not give up. Europe must force Israel to put in place (the ceasefire) “, Belgian MEP Marc Botenga (PTB) reacted on X as he tabled this amendment with six other deputies from his group.
This newly revised report was approved with 265 votes in favour, 253 against and 10 abstentions.
This is the first time that the European Parliament has voted for an unconditional ceasefire.
This action was co-financed by the European Union in the frame of the European Parliament’s grant programme in the field of communication. The European Parliament was not involved in its preparation and is, in no case, responsible for or bound by the information or opinions expressed in the context of this action. In accordance with applicable law, the authors, interviewed people, publishers or programme broadcasters are solely responsible. The European Parliament can also not be held liable for direct or indirect damage that may result from the implementation of the action.
What do you make of this vote?
READ NEXT: IDF Opens Fire On Hundreds Of People Waiting For Food In Gaza, According To Health Authorities
