The EU wants a resumption of negotiations between Israel and Hamas as it is the only way forward, a EU spokesperson said on Monday.
"A return to the ceasefire is essential, leading to the release of all hostages and a permanent end to hostilities," the spokesperson said.
"Humanitarian aid access and distribution, as well as the supply of electricity to Gaza, must be resumed immediately," they said, adding that "Palestinians and Israelis have suffered immensely in the last year and a half. It is time to break the cycle of violence."