The statement adds: “The European Council is deeply concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and its disproportionate effect on civilians, particularly children, as well as the imminent risk of famine caused by the insufficient entry of aid into Gaza.”

In a press conference after the summit, Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned about escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. Michel called on the Israeli government to refrain from launching an operation in Rafah.

Michel described the situation as “a humanitarian tragedy.”

“We believe in the international law, we believe in the international humanitarian law, and that’s why everything must be done to convince, to make sure that there is a real possibility for more humanitarian access,” he said at the press conference.

On Friday, the United States will bring a U.N. draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an Israel-Hamas hostage deal to a Security Council vote.

Reuters reported that the latest version of the draft resolution calls for an “immediate and sustained ceasefire” lasting around six weeks, saying that would protect civilians and allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid.