EU’s von der Leyen urges Israel to reconsider Gaza war expansion

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called on the Israeli government to reconsider its decision to expand the war in the Gaza Strip.

“The Israeli government’s decision to further extend its military operation in Gaza must be reconsidered,” the commission president wrote on X on Friday.

Von der Leyen also called for “immediate and unhindered” access for humanitarian aid to the sealed-off coastal territory, as well as the release of all remaining hostages.

“A ceasefire is needed now,” she added.

Israel’s Security Cabinet approved a proposal by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu overnight to capture Gaza City in the north of the territory in a major expansion of Israel’s ongoing military campaign.