European Union leaders urge for Gaza ceasefire, talk about the critical Israel report

Leaders from the 27 member states of the European Union demanded an immediate halt to hostilities in Gaza on Thursday and stated that talks would continue over a report on Israel’s adherence to the conditions of an agreement with the bloc, according to Reuters report.

“The European Council calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages, leading to a permanent end to hostilities,” Following a talk on the Middle East in Brussels, the leaders stated in written conclusions, as per Reuters.

According to the EU’s diplomatic service, cited by Reuters, there were signs last week that Israel had violated the provisions of a deal controlling its relations with the bloc regarding human rights.

“The European Council takes note of the report on Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and invites the Council to continue discussions on a follow-up, as appropriate, in July 2025, taking into account the evolution of the situation on the ground,” according to Reuters, quoting leaders.