Israel’s military operation in Gaza, the disproportionate use of force and the deaths of civilians cannot be tolerated. The continued targeting of civilian infrastructure is unacceptable. We call for a return to the ceasefire, leading to the release of all hostages and the permanent end to hostilities through negotiations.

The EU reiterates that humanitarian aid must never be politicised or militarised. It recalls the role of the UN in distributing humanitarian assistance. The EU reiterates its urgent call for the immediate, unimpeded and sustained resumption of aid at scale, according to the needs of the civilian population in Gaza.

The EU strongly condemns the ongoing settler violence in the occupied West Bank. Intimidation campaigns, physical and verbal attacks, and the destruction and burning of property and homes are leading to the displacement of entire Palestinian communities. Israel must immediately take decisive steps to address this issue and ensure that the perpetrators of these crimes are held accountable.

The EU condemns incidents that took place on Jerusalem Day in the Old City, including incitement to violence and intimidation of residents and journalists. The provocative actions by Israeli political leaders in this context undermine the special status and character of Jerusalem and its Old City.