VP/HR — Humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip

16.7.2018

Question for written answer E-003933-18
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Hilde Vautmans (ALDE)

Whereas Israel has been promoting a set of infrastructure projects in Gaza to alleviate the humanitarian situation and expects international donors to cover the cost;

Given the deepening West Bank-Gaza split and the failing effort at restoring the Palestinian Authority’s control over the Strip;

Given the worsening humanitarian situation on the ground, the mass protests at the Gaza fence, the latest Hamas rockets and mortar shell attacks and the response of Israel on 15 July;

Given that development and humanitarian aid will not be productive as long the Gaza Strip is being cut off and no free movement of people and goods is allowed;

1. Which actions has the EU taken to promote the opening of the Gaza Strip and to allow free border crossings?

2. Will the EU push for incentivising reconciliation and an end to the punitive measures of the Palestinian Authority on Gaza?

3. How will the EU react on the latest outbreaks of violence, air raids and mortar attacks from both sides and promote further stability?