Palestinian Territories – Israeli authorities’ announcement of an intensification and continuation of fighting in the Gaza Strip (26 December 2023)

France is gravely concerned by the Israeli authorities’ announcement of an intensification and continuation of fighting in Gaza, at a time when systematic bombardment has again caused a very large number of civilian casualties in recent days. France strongly reiterates its call for an immediate truce leading to a ceasefire. The framework of international law requires clear principles of distinction, necessity, proportionality and precaution, everywhere and at all times, in order to spare civilians. Israel must take practical measures to protect the lives of Gaza’s civilians.

In this context, France welcomes the United Nations Security Council’s adoption on 22 December of Resolution 2720, which emphasizes in particular the urgent need to deliver more humanitarian aid to Gaza’s civilian population.

In accordance with this resolution, we call on Israel to facilitate the delivery of aid throughout the Gaza Strip and take urgent measures to guarantee full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. The use of all access and traffic routes must be facilitated, including by making the Kerem Shalom crossing fully operational as a matter of urgency, at a time when the very insufficient quantities of aid entering Gaza for nearly two months are causing a tragic health and humanitarian situation for civilians, who are suffering from, among other things, malnutrition and even famine and a lack of access to treatment for injured and sick people.