EU does not advocate for flotillas providing aid to Gaza

The European Union (EU) has expressed concern over flotillas heading towards Gaza, citing potential risks for participants and the potential escalation of the situation. A recent flotilla, comprising around 20 boats, departed from Barcelona last week, bound for Gaza and scheduled to arrive by mid-September.

The EU's stance is rooted in its efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza on a larger scale. However, the 27-nation bloc has faced challenges in exerting pressure on Israel due to internal splits.

The United Nations (UN) has declared a famine in Gaza, warning that 500,000 people are facing "catastrophic" conditions. The UN rights chief has also denounced what they perceive as genocidal rhetoric from Israeli officials regarding Gaza.

In light of these circumstances, the EU believes the best way to deliver humanitarian aid is through partner organisations working on the ground. Typically, the EU relies on international organisations such as the UN and established humanitarian NGOs to deliver aid in the Gaza Strip.

However, Israeli authorities currently favor the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) for aid distribution. UN agencies and other NGOs have expressed concerns about this new system and have called for a return to traditional distribution mechanisms.

Despite these challenges, the EU continues to engage with Israel, maintaining open channels of communication with Israeli authorities. The EU is currently pushing Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, in an attempt to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.

It is important to note that in the past, Israel has blocked two activist attempts to deliver aid to Gaza by ship in June and July. The EU urges caution in such actions, as they have the potential to escalate the situation.

In conclusion, the European Union is committed to delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, but is urging caution in the face of potential risks and the need for a coordinated, effective response. The current situation in Gaza remains a complex and pressing issue, with the EU and the international community continuing to work towards finding a solution.