The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, urged an end to the renewed fighting in Gaza. She first visited Egypt on Sunday before traveling to Israel and the Palestinian territories to push for a ceasefire.

Fighting Resumes in Gaza

After negotiations with Hamas collapsed, Israel launched airstrikes and ground operations on Tuesday. As a result, the six-week ceasefire ended, and violence escalated again. Speaking in Cairo, Kallas strongly opposed the renewed attacks. "We strongly oppose Israel’s resumption of hostilities, which caused appalling loss of life in Gaza. The killing must stop. In a new war, both sides lose," she said. Furthermore, she called for Hamas to release all hostages and for Israel to restore humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Diplomatic Efforts for Peace

After leaving Egypt, Kallas traveled to Israel to push for an immediate return to the ceasefire-hostage release agreement. Moreover, her office stressed the urgent need for unrestricted humanitarian aid in Gaza. The United Nations described the current situation as a "nightmare." In addition, aid workers warned that conditions had worsened after Israel cut off food, medical supplies, and electricity due to stalled negotiations.

Meetings with Israeli and Palestinian Leaders

During her visit, Kallas planned to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, and opposition leader Yair Lapid. However, she did not meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu because the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him for crimes against humanity and war crimes. Meanwhile, she was also scheduled to meet Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas and Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa in the West Bank.

Ceasefire Disagreements

Recently, Israel and the United States have tried to change the terms of the ceasefire deal. However, Hamas rejected these changes, calling them a violation of the original agreement. Previously, the first phase of the ceasefire had allowed humanitarian aid into Gaza. Additionally, it led to an exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

Rising Death Toll

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli reports. In response, Israel launched a bombardment and ground invasion of Gaza. Consequently, the Gaza health ministry reported 50,021 deaths. The United Nations considers these numbers reliable.

Uncertain Future

As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, and a lasting ceasefire remains uncertain.