Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu called for open humanitarian corridors to Gaza and for sustained aid delivery to those displaced. He shared these views at a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscoring the need for international involvement to facilitate safe access and relief efforts. The statement came during remarks coordinated with the Israeli leadership to address urgent humanitarian needs. [Citation: Romanian government press office]
Ciolacu emphasized that the international community must participate actively in establishing such corridors and in ensuring that essential assistance reaches people in the Gaza Strip without delays. He framed relief as a global responsibility, urging allied nations and international organizations to collaborate in planning, funding, and implementing safe passage for aid convoys and evacuees. [Citation: Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
The Romanian leader also expressed gratitude to Netanyahu for cooperation in the repatriation of Romanian citizens from Israel, recognizing the importance of mutual support during periods of heightened tension and danger. [Citation: Romanian government press office]
Earlier, Juliette Tuma, spokesperson for the UN agency assisting Palestine refugees, provided figures indicating that nearly one million residents of Gaza have been displaced from their homes. She noted that the official tally may underestimate the true number of people who have been forced to flee. [Citation: UNRWA]
Tuma highlighted the broader humanitarian impact, suggesting that the number of internally displaced persons could be even higher when accounting for evolving conditions on the ground. The ongoing crisis has strained civilian life, with families seeking safety amid ongoing hostilities and disruption to basic services. [Citation: UNRWA]
In related discussions, Israeli authorities were reported to be seeking the evacuation of a large portion of Gaza’s population toward the southern areas. Observers pointed out that such displacement raises serious concerns about humanitarian principles and the protection of civilians in conflict zones. [Citation: UN commentary]
Additionally, it was indicated that Egypt has shown reluctance to accept refugees from Gaza, reflecting the complexity of regional responses to the humanitarian emergency. The political and logistical dynamics surrounding refugee movements continue to shape international responses and aid arrangements. [Citation: regional briefing]