This stance, coordinated with the US, aims to restrict Israel's choices so that it follows a version of the three-step agreement endorsed by Hamas. The UK emphasized its objective of securing a lasting and stable ceasefire, along with Hamas's removal from the future governance of Gaza.
The British assertion that Israel hasn’t presented a credible plan for the assault on Rafah in southern Gaza that adheres to international humanitarian law echoes a similar statement made by the French foreign minister on Monday. Mitchell went further by suggesting that such an invasion could actually bolster, rather than weaken, Hamas.
Across Europe, the EU's foreign affairs head, Josep Borrell, expressed concern: "The offensive on Rafah has resumed despite calls from the international community, the US, EU member states, and all those urging Mr. Netanyahu not to proceed. The attack began overnight, and I fear it will result in more civilian casualties, given the lack of safe zones in Gaza." Borrell emphasized the 600,000 children present in Gaza.
Efforts are being made to propose sanctions or amend the EU's trade agreement with Israel. Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, questioned whether Israel can still be considered a trade partner amidst the unfolding events.
The US has urged its allies not to publicly threaten Israel with repercussions, emphasizing the need to persuade Israel to accept the ceasefire plan within the next 48 hours.
Mitchell hinted at the possibility of other figures within the Israeli government beyond Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu potentially influencing the crisis, suggesting that centrist leaders like Benny Gantz may diverge from Netanyahu amid the ongoing situation. Gantz has called for ceasefire negotiations to continue but pointed out significant differences between Hamas's proposal and the discussions held thus far.
Mitchell also noted that Hamas, by accepting a ceasefire deal, hasn’t fully endorsed the same terms as Israel. He stressed the importance of all parties agreeing to a viable deal to establish momentum towards a lasting ceasefire.
The key issue in the talks revolves around Israel's commitment to transforming a temporary ceasefire into a permanent one. The US highlighted minor wording changes between the versions accepted by Israel and Hamas.
Both the UN and Mitchell have unequivocally called for Israel to lift its renewed blockade on humanitarian aid. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged immediate access to Gaza for critical aid and appealed to Israel to halt any escalation after deploying tanks to Rafah.
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