BRUSSELS, March 3 (MENA) - The European Union (EU) called for a rapid resumption of negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza.

In a press release published by the EU European External Action Service (EEAS) on its website Monday, the EU said Israel’s decision to prevent the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza will inevitably lead to dire humanitarian consequences.

According to the release, permanent ceasefire would contribute to the release of all remaining Israeli hostages, ensuring the necessary conditions for the start of recovery and reconstruction in Gaza.

All parties bear a political responsibility to make this ambition a reality, it said, adding that the EU reiterated its call for the need to provide full, rapid, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid on a large scale for Palestinians in need and to allow the effective and safe work of humanitarian workers and international organizations inside Gaza.

At the conclusion of the release , the EU stated that its civil border assistance mission at the civil border assistance at the Rafah crossing "EUBAM Rafah" is ready to continue its work if the parties request it.

The EU said thanks to the presence of this mission, about 3,000 people have so far been able to cross the border since the first of last February. (MENA)

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