Aiming to enhance humanitarian aid and address the humanitarian crisis, while hoping to develop a comprehensive plan for the reconstruction and rebuilding of the Gaza Strip, the government of the Arab Republic of Egypt, with the assistance of the United Nations, organized a Ministerial Conference in Cairo on December 2, 2024. Greece was represented by the Secretary General for International Economic Affairs and Openness of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dimitrios Skalkos and Director General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Assistance, Ambassador, Mr. Dimitrios Caramitsos-Tziras.
In the intervention of the Greek delegation, Greece expressed its concerns about the developments in the Gaza Strip conflict, as well as the worsening situation in the West Bank and its consequences for the broader region. At the same time, the need for expanded access to humanitarian aid was emphasized, with Greece expressing support for the decisions and actions taken by the European Union, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and highlighting Greece’s economic and humanitarian assistance while stressing the importance of transitioning to the phase of reconstruction and rebuilding Gaza after the ceasefire.
Specifically, in addition to the amounts already given to UNRWA and UNICEF for Palestine, an amount of 200,000 euros is allocated through the World Health Organization to address immediate needs in Gaza. Concerns were also expressed about the risks of potential collapse of UNRWA’s humanitarian operations following Israel’s decision to cancel the agreement with the UN Relief Agency for Palestinian refugees.
Finally, it was stressed that the only long-term solution is the revitalization of the political process for a two-state solution, creating a sustainable solution for Palestinians with full guarantees for Israel’s security. All parties involved must respect and adhere to international humanitarian law, the fundamental principles of humanitarian aid, and international human rights law to protect civilians, journalists, humanitarian personnel, non-military infrastructure, and facilitate the provision and access to humanitarian aid.