Buildings are damaged after Israel’s airstrikes on the Gaza Strip. (Photo: IRNA/VNA)

After his trip to the Middle East to discuss the crises in the region, Borrell underscored the need for a rapid end to the fighting and the release of hostages, for avoiding a forced displacement of Palestinians outside of the enclave, and for a rapid withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

On the same day, France's President Emmanuel Macron called for fresh talks for the release of the hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

During its October 7 attack, Hamas seized 250 hostages, 132 of whom Israel says remain in Gaza, including at least 25 believed to have been killed. Three French citizens remain unaccounted for following the October 7 attack and are thought to be among the hostages held in Gaza.