HRC55 - Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Occupied Palestinian Territory - EU Statement
United Nations Human Rights Council
55th session
Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Occupied Palestinian Territory
26 March 2024
EU Statement
Thank you Mister President,
We take note of the Special Rapporteur report.
The EU stresses the importance of proper and independent investigations on all allegations.
The EU is appalled by the unprecedented loss of civilian lives and the critical humanitarian situation and recall the conclusions of the European Council of March 22
We recall our condemnation of Hamas for its brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks on October 7, recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself in line with international law and international humanitarian law, and calling for the immediate release of all hostages without any precondition. Hamas and other armed groups must immediately grant humanitarian access to all remaining hostages.
We are concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and its disproportionate effect on civilians, particularly children, as well as the imminent risk of famine caused by the insufficient entry of aid.
Immediate measures should be taken to prevent any further population displacement and provide safe shelter to the population to ensure that civilians are protected at all times
All parties must respect international law. We stress the importance of respecting and implementing the 26 January 2024 order of the International Court of Justice, which is legally binding. Violations need to be independently and properly investigated and accountability must be ensured.
We call for an immediate halt to violence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and strongly condemns extremist settler violence. Perpetrators must be held to account.
Yesterday the UN Security Council approved resolution 2728, The European Union remains firmly committed to a lasting and sustainable peace based on the two-state solution.
I thank you.