European Leaders Condemn Israeli Actions, Urge Compliance with International Law
The European Council has issued a stern rebuke to the Israeli government, condemning its actions in the region and urging it to comply with its international obligations. The council’s final document, while criticizing the Hamas for demanding the unconditional release of all hostages, also called on Israel to lift the blockade of the Gaza Strip in its entirety.
The document emphasized the need for Israel to fulfill its obligations under international law, including humanitarian law, without exception. It also condemned the escalation of violence in the West Bank, attributing it to the increasing settler violence, the expansion of illegal settlements and Israeli military operations.
The European Union will continue to support the Palestinian Authority and its reform agenda, the council stated.
In a more diplomatic tone, the council addressed the conflict with Iran, welcoming the cessation of hostilities and urging the country to fulfill its obligations under the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. The European Union will continue to support all diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and achieve a lasting solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, which can only be achieved through negotiations, the document read.