RAFAH: A French parliamentary delegation, after visiting the Rafah border crossing on Saturday, has emphatically called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
The delegation, led by French MP Eric Coquerel, inspected the land crossing and expressed concern over the humanitarian aid backlog at the Egyptian border.
The visit aimed to address the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict and its impact on the lives of civilians in the region.
During the inspection, MP Eric Coquerel underscored the urgent need for both Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners to be released, particularly those detained administratively.
The delegation voiced support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and commended its indispensable humanitarian efforts in the area.
The French parliamentarians stressed the importance of negotiations that encompass key issues for lasting peace. They called for Israel to withdraw its forces from Gaza promptly, end the blockade imposed on the occupied Palestinian territory, halt the construction of illegal settlements in the West Bank, and cease the confiscation of property in East Jerusalem.
These recommendations align with international law and respect the rights of the Palestinian people, as affirmed by numerous United Nations resolutions.
The delegation’s visit to Rafah served as an opportunity to engage with humanitarian groups actively assisting refugees and the injured in the region. By expressing solidarity with all civilians affected by the conflict, the French delegation reiterated its commitment to fostering peace and adherence to international law.
The delegation condemned Israel’s actions, citing the killing of over 27,000 Palestinian people in Gaza and nearly 400 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The casualties included many women and children, adding a poignant dimension to the urgency of finding a resolution to the conflict.
This visit by the French parliamentary group marks a precedent as the first by a foreign parliamentary team to the Rafah border crossing, signifying their commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis and advocating for peace in the region.
