‘Enough is Enough’: Finnish Foreign Affairs Minister urges Israeli ceasefire

Finnish Foreign Affairs Minister Elina Valtonen expresses concern over the ongoing conflict in Gaza

In an interview on Thursday, the Finnish Foreign Affairs Minister Elina Valtonen expressed deep concern over the prolonged conflict in Gaza, where clashes between Israeli soldiers and Hamas fighters have persisted for over three months, resulting in thousands of civilian casualties.

Addressing Israel’s right to self-defense under international law, the minister acknowledged the legitimacy of this right but claimed that the time for immediate self-defense has passed by saying “enough is enough”. She stated the urgency for an immediate ceasefire and stressed facilitating humanitarian aid reaching civilians in Gaza who face dire conditions, and lack necessities like food and clean water.

“It is crucial for Israel to grant access to international aid trucks and open more border crossings for humanitarian deliveries,” the minister emphasized, highlighting the pressing need for a humanitarian ceasefire to prevent further loss of life.

Concerning Israel’s duty to avoid civilian casualties, the minister called for increased efforts, citing daily civilian deaths. He urged Israel to take additional measures to protect non-combatants caught in the crossfire.

Expressing hope in the EU’s peace plan, the minister emphasized collaboration with Arab states, considering the two-state solution as the sole viable roadmap to lasting peace in the region. While acknowledging the necessity of continued talks on issues like security assurances, she viewed the EU peace plan as an innovative and sustainable approach.

“The two-state solution is a common understanding in the EU, but precise negotiations, especially regarding security guarantees for Israelis and Palestinians, are crucial,” he stated.

Despite fears of Hamas regrouping during a ceasefire, the minister underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict. She advocated for collective action to build a better future for Gaza, recognizing that the rise of extremism is a consequence of the prolonged conflict. “Stopping the spread of extremist groups within and outside the region is essential,” Valtonen concluded.

Source: Newsroom