In a new declaration on the escalation in the Gaza Strip, the European Union called on Israel and Hamas ‘’to immediately agree to a ceasefire.’’
‘’We are very concerned about the escalation in the Gaza Strip including the resumption of rocket fire into Israel and the Israeli ground operation,’’ the declaration said.
‘’We welcome yesterday's humanitarian pause and deeply regret that this did not lead to a lasting ceasefire. We call on all parties to immediately agree to a ceasefire. We underline the obligation to allow full and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance.’’
The EU said current events ‘’make the efforts to establish a ceasefire even more urgent’’, welcoming the on-going efforts by regional partners and in particular the initiative launched by Egypt.
‘’We reiterate our call on both sides to de-escalate the situation, to end the violence and to end the suffering of the civilian populations.’’
The declaration adds, ‘’We have already witnessed too many civilian deaths, including many children such as those killed on a beach in Gaza. We strongly deplore such incidents and we call for them to be investigated swiftly.’’
‘’We condemn the continued firing of rockets from Gaza into Israel by Hamas and other militant groups and the indiscriminate targeting of civilians. We share the UN condemnation of the placement of rockets in a UN school. Israel has the right to protect its population from this kind of attacks. In doing so, it must act proportionately and ensure the protection of civilians at all times.’’
The EU stresses that ‘’a lasting solution must be found which ensures peace and security for all Israelis and Palestinians.’ The EU reiterates its readiness ‘’to provide the necessary support to this end.’’