Why the EU is moving to endorse a ‘humanitarian pause’ in Gaza

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on the Financial Times or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The EU is intensifying efforts to impose a "humanitarian pause" on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, as the situation in Gaza becomes increasingly dire
• This comes from the draft conclusions of an upcoming EU summit on the 26-27 of October, which officials warn could still change

🔭 The context: On October 7, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, leading to the tragic loss of 1,400 lives and several hundred hostages taken
• Israel's retaliation on Gaza has resulted in over 5,000 casualties and millions stranded in Gaza without an adequate supply of food or water

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The EU, with its diverse member states, has struggled to find a common stance on the Israel-Palestine issue
• With nations like Ireland leaning pro-Palestinian and others like Germany tending to be more pro-Israeli, achieving consensus is challenging
• However, amidst this discord, the call for a "humanitarian pause" has emerged as the common ground and could be essential in providing aid to Gazanas

⏭️ What's next: While the EU's chief diplomat, Josep Borrell, acknowledged that the "pause" might not be the peace that many hope for, this call could urge Israel to allow aid into Gaza

📈 One stat: Over 2.3 million civilians are currently trapped in Gaza, facing dire circumstances due to the lack of essential supplies, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian intervention

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