Under the leadership of the Socialists and Democrats, the European Parliament today adopted its first resolution on Gaza for years, condemning the man-made humanitarian catastrophe imposed by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s far-right government and calling for sanctions.

The resolution calls for an immediate ceasefire and delivery of humanitarian aid. It clearly condemns Israel as responsible for obstructing aid and worsening the humanitarian situation. It also demands the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and supports the recognition of the State of Palestine – as only a two-state solution can ensure lasting peace in the region.

The Parliament urges the European Union to take action through sanctions – not just words. Specifically, it calls on the European Commission and member states to suspend the trade pillar of the EU-Israel association agreement, and to block all arms transfers to Israel. It also backs the full reinstatement of UNRWA’s mandate and expresses strong support for the International Criminal Court and its warrant orders.

Yannis Maniatis, vice-president of the S&D Group for foreign affairs, said:

"The bloodshed and the man-made famine in Gaza must end now. Every day of EU inaction is a blank cheque for Netanyahu’s government to continue committing its war crimes and escaping accountability. I am proud that the European Parliament has taken the lead for expressing the Union's position. It is time for the EU to regain its credibility, and to stand firmly by our values and international law.

"With this resolution, the European Parliament has drawn a red line: the EU cannot remain complicit in this man-made tragedy. We demand an immediate ceasefire, real sanctions, and concrete steps towards a two-state solution – the only path to lasting peace in the region." 

Nacho Sánchez Amor, S&D spokesperson in the European Parliament’s foreign affairs committee, said:

"For the first time, this House has taken a clear stance against the humanitarian catastrophe imposed by the Netanyahu government as a collective punishment in Gaza. We call for the release of all hostages, the end of the blockade, and a just two-state solution. The EU must finally match its words with deeds. International and humanitarian law are non-negotiable, and when they are ignored, as it is obviously the case, strong sanctions must follow: no more arms to Israel, no more trade either. The resolution also fully supports reinstating UNRWA’s mandate, and the role of the ICC in ensuring accountability for war crimes."