The governments of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom issued a joint declaration on March 21 demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, in what marks the most coordinated pressure from Europe since Israel resumed its bombardment campaign earlier this month.

The statement urges Israel to restore humanitarian access, including electricity, water, and medical infrastructure, and to allow the evacuation of the wounded. The three foreign ministries also called for the release of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas, but emphasized that the current Israeli military strategy would not bring peace or security.

“The fighting must end now,” the joint statement read. “We call on all parties to agree to an immediate and lasting ceasefire to prevent further civilian deaths and allow life-saving aid to reach those in need.”

The statement comes as Israeli airstrikes continue across southern and central Gaza, with local officials reporting dozens more killed overnight. The Israeli government has dismissed previous international ceasefire proposals, maintaining its campaign in defiance of mounting civilian casualties and a signed agreement that set a ceasefire framework starting March 2.

The Crustian Daily previously reported that Israel has continued attacks throughout the declared ceasefire, while Hamas has held to the terms and repeatedly called for the ceasefire to advance to Phase Two, as outlined in the agreement. The contrast between the two parties is increasingly stark: Hamas is demanding a return to the ceasefire terms, while Israel is intensifying its military operations.

As pressure builds from Europe and other international actors, humanitarian organizations warn that the catastrophic blockade of aid—now into its third week—is compounding the death toll, particularly among children, the sick, and the displaced.

Reported by Casey Clearview for The Crustian Daily.