Resistance to the total siege was decided Israel in the Gaza Strip, Continue aid to the Palestinian Authority and clearly distinguish between it and Hamas. The High Representative for Foreign Policy of the European Union, Josep Borrell, outlined the line that Brussels should take at the end of an extraordinary meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council. At the special summit, the foreign ministers of the Twenty-seven discussed the crisis in Israel and the region via video conference, after recent tensions had now developed into a real open conflict.
The EU position
There position Europe seems very clear. Ministers attending the meeting condemned the recent attacks and called for the protection and restraint of civilians, the release of hostages and ensuring access to food, water and medicine in Gaza in accordance with international humanitarian law through the opening of humanitarian corridors.
The importance of addressing the consequences of the offensives through increased cooperation with regional and international actors to revitalize the Middle East peace process was also stressed. The ministers reiterated Israel’s right to do soSelf-defense, “in full compliance with international humanitarian law”. They then discussed how to continue cooperation with the Palestinian Authority and support the Palestinian people.
Borrell’s words
Borrell explained that a distinction was made between these Hamas, the Palestinian people and the Palestinian Authority, defining the former as a terrorist organization and the latter as a partner. “We consider Hamas to be a terrorist organization, but the Palestinian Authority is something else, it is our partner,” he said, adding that Brussels does not negotiate with Hamas but “supports, negotiates and cooperates with” the Palestinian Authority. .
Hence the condemnation of blind and indiscriminate rage in Gaza. “Not all Palestinians are terrorists. So one.” collective punishment against all Palestinians would be unjust and unproductive. “This will go against our interests and the interest of peace,” Borrell clarified, pointing out that respect for international law means “no to blocking water, food and electricity.”
The support of Europe
The Europeans, the senior EU official said, were also “overwhelmingly opposed to ending their aid to the Palestinian Authority.” Ministers agreed that the EU will continue to work with all parties and maintain the agreement financial support and politically for the region. Brussels will then ensure its long-term commitment to ensure that a two-state political solution “outlasts these tragic events,” the Council concluded.
“The vast majority of member states believe that we must continue to support the Palestinian Authority and that payments due should not be delayed at a time when this authority is at a critical juncture because the Palestinian people are also suffering,” Borrell explained yourself again. Finally, with regard to the crisis, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs stated that “a terrorist and barbaric attack” “led to a response by the Israeli armed forces, which in turn caused human suffering.” “We insist that this response must be carried out in accordance with humanitarian law,” he concluded.