The European Union will discuss its next steps in the face of the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East at a high-level meeting on Tuesday. EU summit president Charles Michel announced on Saturday night in
Michel reiterated the positions expressed by leading EU politicians in recent days that Hamas’ brutal acts of terror “cannot be justified by anything”, that there is solidarity with the Israeli people and that Israel has the right to self-defence “of accordance with international law”. he has. “This ongoing tragedy has many consequences for Europe,” said Michel, explaining his decision for the special EU summit, which is scheduled for Tuesday at 5:30 pm (CEST).
Michel said the hostages taken by Hamas must be released immediately and without any preconditions. At the same time, Michel lamented the “tragic” conditions in the Gaza Strip following massive Israeli bombing and an imposed blockade. This raises alarm bells in the international community.
Michel emphasized that the EU must provide humanitarian support and prevent the conflict from spreading regionally. The importance of the commitment to a lasting and sustainable peace “based on a two-state solution” should not be lost sight of, the former Belgian Prime Minister called for “increased efforts” in the peace process in the Middle East.
Michel also expressed concern about the potential negative impact of the conflict on social cohesion in Europe. “This conflict could also have greater security implications for our societies. If we are not careful, it could increase tensions between different communities and promote extremism,” he warned. Ultimately, it could also lead to a new wave of refugees heading towards Europe. “We absolutely have to face all these challenges together,” Michel said.