People Gather in France and Belgium to Protest Insufficient Humanitarian Pause in Gaza
Humanitarian groups in France and Belgium have voiced their concerns over the recent four-day pause agreed upon between Israel and Hamas. The pause, which commenced on Friday, includes the exchange of Israeli hostages and the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. However, the pause falls short of addressing the critical needs of the Gaza Strip, where more than 14,800 Palestinians, including over 10,000 women and children, have been killed by Israel. The blockade imposed by Israel has also left the Gaza Strip deprived of essential supplies for over six weeks.
Pierre Motin, advocacy manager of the Platform of French NGOs for Palestine, welcomed the humanitarian pause but stressed that it is far from sufficient for a genuine resolution. Motin believes that only a long-lasting cease-fire can truly put an end to the indiscriminate attacks on the civilian population and enable the delivery of vital humanitarian aid. Describing the situation in Gaza as catastrophic, he emphasized the urgent need for sustained assistance.
The dire situation extends to the West Bank, where over 220 Palestinians have been killed, including nine Israeli settlers. Arnaud Zacharie, secretary-general of the National Center for Development Cooperation in Belgium, concurred that the humanitarian pause in Gaza is inadequate. He called for a complete cease-fire, the release of all hostages, and a renewed commitment to international law and dialogue for a lasting peace agreement. Zacharie believes that peace does not only benefit Palestinians but is also crucial for Israelis.
The responses from the French and Belgian authorities have been contrasting. While the French government and President Emmanuel Macron have expressed full support for Israel, Belgian ministers have emphasized the need to end violence against civilians. Motin urged the French government to prioritize respect for international law within its policy on the issue, while Zacharie highlighted Belgium’s forthcoming proactive role as it assumes the rotating presidency of the EU.
The handling of social movements related to the Palestine-Israel issue has also differed significantly between France and Belgium. The conflict has sparked intense political and social debates in France, leading to the government banning numerous pro-Palestinian demonstrations. However, the French Council of State recently ruled that protests cannot be systematically prohibited, leaving the decision to regional authorities. Motin called on France to preserve the freedom of expression while ensuring peaceful demonstrations. In Belgium, there has been less tension, and authorities have been in cooperation with NGOs to organize demonstrations.
Both Motin and Zacharie stressed the importance of international law and human rights, emphasizing their universal nature. They believe that their activities, based on the application of international law and the protection of civilians, unite people beyond societal divisions. Motin noted that many French citizens find the continuous airstrikes on the civilian population in the Gaza Strip unacceptable.
In conclusion, the humanitarian pause agreed upon between Israel and Hamas has been deemed insufficient by French and Belgian humanitarian groups. The calls for a durable cease-fire, the release of hostages, and adherence to international law and human rights remain strong. Both countries have experienced varying responses from authorities regarding social movements related to the Palestine-Israel issue. The focus on peaceful demonstrations and the preservation of freedom of expression underscore the importance of finding a just and lasting solution to the conflict.
