The EU plans to tell Israel next week that Palestinians who were expelled from their homes in Gaza should be provided with a dignified return, and that Europe will contribute to the reconstruction of the devastated area, Reuters reports.
That reflects the views of Arab countries, but runs counter to former President Donald Trump's goal of the United States taking over the devastated coastline and turning it into the "Riviera of the Middle East," while Gazans emigrated to other countries.
The EU, which is one of the main donors of aid to the Palestinians, will present its position to Israeli officials at talks in Brussels on February 24 as part of the EU-Israel Association Council, the first such meeting since 2022.
The document outlining the EU's draft position also highlights Europe's commitment to Israel's security and its position that "displaced Gazans should be ensured a safe and dignified return to their homes in Gaza."
"The EU will actively contribute to a coordinated international effort for the early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza," the document said, calling for a full humanitarian approach.
"The EU deeply regrets the unacceptable number of civilian casualties, especially women and children, who have lost their lives, and the catastrophic humanitarian situation, particularly caused by the insufficient access of aid to Gaza, especially in the north."
Israel launched its attack on Gaza after fighters from the Palestinian militant group Hamas invaded southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1.200 people and taking more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli figures.
More than 48.000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to Palestinian health officials. Aid agencies say much of the enclave has been destroyed, with most of its pre-war population of 2,3 million displaced multiple times.
"The EU strongly opposes all actions that undermine the viability of the two-state solution," the document added, calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state that would exist alongside Israel.
Bonus video:
