Ashraf AboArafe reports
The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy issued a strong statement today regarding the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, denouncing Israel’s ongoing military operation in Gaza and the disproportionate use of force that has resulted in the deaths of civilians and destruction of civilian infrastructure.
The EU emphasized that such actions “cannot be tolerated”, and called for an immediate return to the ceasefire, paving the way for the release of all hostages and the permanent cessation of hostilities through negotiations.
The statement stressed that humanitarian aid must never be politicised or militarised, underlining the central role of the United Nations in delivering such aid. The EU reiterated its urgent call for the immediate, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of large-scale humanitarian assistance, tailored to the needs of the civilian population in Gaza.
In addition, the EU strongly condemned the ongoing settler violence in the occupied West Bank, citing campaigns of intimidation, physical and verbal attacks, as well as the burning and destruction of Palestinian homes and properties. These actions have led to the displacement of entire Palestinian communities. The EU urged Israel to take immediate and decisive action to stop the violence and hold the perpetrators accountable.
The EU also condemned incidents that occurred during Jerusalem Day in the Old City, including incitement to violence and the intimidation of residents and journalists. It warned that provocative actions by Israeli political leaders in this context undermine the special status and character of Jerusalem and its Old City.
