TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has labeled the situation in Gaza as the "crisis of the century," urging an immediate ceasefire to halt Israeli atrocities in the region.

In a significant phone call on Monday, Amir Abdollahian engaged in discussions with Josep Borrell, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The focus was on critical regional and global issues while examining the evolving dynamics between Iran and the EU.

Amir Abdollahian expressed deep concerns regarding the escalating crisis in Gaza, condemning reported executions of Palestinians at al-Shifa Hospital and the indiscriminate killings of civilians, particularly women and children, by the Israeli military. He criticized Benjamin Netanyahu's apparent prioritization of personal and national interests over humanitarian concerns, describing the situation in Gaza as the "crisis of the century," exacerbated by deliberate tactics employed by the Israeli regime.

Acknowledging Borrell's call for a halt to hostilities and immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza, the top Iranian diplomat called for punitive measures against the Israeli government and proposed the establishment of an international investigative body to probe alleged atrocities, including those at Shifa Hospital.

Expressing solidarity with Palestine, Borrell highlighted the EU's continued humanitarian aid to Gaza and support for UNRWA initiatives, while advocating for a permanent ceasefire and constructive collaboration with Palestinian authorities. He condemned Israel's policy of subjecting civilians in Rafah to starvation.

Recognizing Iran's pivotal role in the region, Borrell urged for sustained efforts to de-escalate tensions.

The conversation also touched on various other topics, including consular matters, highlighting the breadth and depth of bilateral discussions between Iran and the European Union.

Both sides stressed the necessity of maintaining an ongoing dialogue between Iran and the European Union, advocating for sustained engagement and diplomatic efforts to ease the sanctions imposed on Iran.