Why it matters:
Israel's decision to seize Gaza City was criticised by European leaders over humanitarian concerns. European and world leaders have criticised the decision, warning that the move risks exacerbating the already catastrophic humanitarian crisis in the Strip.
The big picture
While hundreds of thousands of people globally, especially in Europe, are calling for an end to the violence in Gaza, five European countries are urging Israel to reverse its decision to occupy the Gaza Strip.
Germany has decided to suspend exports of weapons that could be used in Gaza.
Meanwhile, Spain's Foreign Minister stated on Monday that neither Spain nor the European Union will ever recognize any unilateral annexation of Gaza or the West Bank, condemning Israel's military escalation in the territory.
What he's saying:
“We are not facing a military operation with collateral damage, but the pure denial of the law and the founding values of our civilisation,” the Italian defence minister told La Stampa daily in an interview published today.
“We are committed to humanitarian aid, but we must now find a way to force Netanyahu to think, beyond condemnation,” he said.
Asked about possible international sanctions against Israel, Crosetto said, “The occupation of Gaza and some serious acts in the West Bank mark a qualitative leap, in the face of which decisions must be made that force Netanyahu to think.”
He added: “We must always distinguish governments from states and peoples, as well as from the religions they profess. This applies for Netanyahu, and it applies to [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, whose methods, by now, have become dangerously similar.”
Go deeper:
Western Nations Condemn Israeli Occupation Plan of Gaza
Hossein Amiri - Hossein Vaez
