ATHENS

Europe on Monday welcomed the UN Security Council's passage of a resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

On X, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the resolution “demands an immediate ceasefire during Ramadan, leading to a lasting one, unconditional release of all hostages & emphasises the need to expand flow of aid & protect civilians.”

He added: “It needs an urgent implementation by all.” Ramadan is due to end on April 9, though supporters of a cease-fire hope that it would last past then.

Similarly, European President Council Charles Michael said: “I commend the vote today at the UN Security Council that calls clearly for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.”

“It is now urgent for this to be upheld,” he added.

Also welcoming the resolution, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pointed out: “Implementation of this resolution is vital for the protection of all civilians.”

Moreover, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne said on X: “I welcome the adoption of the Security Council resolution on the Middle East.”

He added, “It must be fully implemented.”

Belgian Foreign Minister Hajda Lahbib said: “The guns must be silenced, hostages released, and aid must reach the Palestinians in Gaza.”

The passage of such a resolution has been months in the making, with several such resolutions failing due to vetoes by the UN's permanent members, notably including the US and Russia.

There is no way to enforce the resolution, but cease-fire proponents hope its moral force and the possibility of international condemnation will push Israel to suspend its offensive into Gaza, which has killed over 32,000 people and put millions on the brink of famine.