Geneva – The Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) held a significant meeting with Katarina Tapio, head of the Human Rights Section at the European Union (EU) Delegation to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva, to discuss the escalating violence in Gaza and Lebanon. PRC used the opportunity to urge the EU to take a more assertive role in calling for an immediate ceasefire and increasing humanitarian support to the affected populations.

During the meeting, PRC called on the EU to adopt a stronger and more urgent stance on the situation in Gaza, highlighting the heavy civilian toll and ongoing destruction of homes and infrastructure. The organization provided Ms. Tapio with updated statistics on civilian casualties and the widespread devastation in Gaza. PRC also raised concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian conditions due to the ongoing blockade and military strikes.

In addition to focusing on the critical situation on the ground, PRC briefed Ms. Tapio on alarming reports of torture and mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners, particularly in the notorious Sde Timan prison in Israel. The organization described these conditions as "heinous" and called for an international investigation into the alleged human rights violations.

PRC also expressed concern over the destruction of EU-funded humanitarian projects in Gaza and the West Bank, which have been severely damaged or rendered inoperable due to ongoing Israeli military operations. The destruction of this aid, which includes vital infrastructure and humanitarian supplies, has worsened the already dire situation for civilians and undermined the EU’s efforts to provide relief.

In response, Ms. Tapio reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to promoting peace, noting the Union’s ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and deliver humanitarian aid to those in need. However, she acknowledged the challenges in achieving a unified position among the 27 EU member states. While individual states may pursue initiatives such as a weapons embargo or recognize the state of Palestine, there is no consensus across the EU on these measures.

PRC called on the EU to take concrete steps to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians, both in Gaza and Lebanon, where conditions for refugees continue to worsen amid ongoing conflict. They stressed the urgent need for EU intervention to protect civilians, restore destroyed humanitarian projects, and prevent further escalation.

This meeting highlights PRC’s ongoing efforts to engage with international bodies in advocating for Palestinian rights. The organization continues to call on the EU and the global community to act swiftly in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and hold those responsible for human rights violations accountable.