BRUSSELS - The European Union (EU) called on Sunday for a rapid resumption of negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza.

"A permanent ceasefire would contribute to the release of all remaining Israeli hostages while ensuring the necessary conditions for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza to begin. All parties have a political responsibility to make this a reality," Anouar El Anouni, the spokesperson for EU foreign affairs and security policy, said in a statement.

The EU reiterates its calls for full, rapid, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid at scale for Palestinians in need and for allowing and facilitating humanitarian workers and international organizations to operate effectively and safely inside Gaza, the spokesperson said.