The three European countries said Israel’s decision to resume air strikes on Gaza marked a “dramatic step backward” and urged Israel to return to a ceasefire. 

“We are appalled by the civilian casualties and urgently call for an immediate return to a ceasefire,” the statement by France, Germany and the United Kingdom said. 

“More bloodshed is in no one’s interest. Israel should fully respect international law and allow aid to flow immediately.”

The joint statement also called for all parties to return to the negotiating table.