The PES unequivocally condemns Hamas for the brutal terrorist attack it launched on Israel on 7 October. We call on Hamas to release the hostages it has taken, immediately and without condition.
Ahead of the emergency European Council meeting today, we urge member states to speak with one voice, in support of the values which our Union embodies.
This begins with support for Israel’s right to defend itself. The EU must support Israel’s rights to self-defence and the restoration of safety and stability for its citizens. This must be done in full compliance with international law, with a clear focus on minimising the impact on civilian populations. Disregard for this principle would only risk further escalation and involvement by other actors.
Our thoughts are with the families of those who were killed, wounded or kidnapped by Hamas. Our thoughts are with the innocent civilians in Gaza who are caught in a terrible humanitarian situation, who have lost people or seen them wounded, or who have lost their homes. And our thoughts are with the UN and humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in their service to others.
A humanitarian disaster is emerging in Gaza and we must heed the warnings that are being made by the United Nations and many others working on the ground. Humanitarian access and corridors to Gaza must be urgently established. We encourage the EU and its member states to continue working towards that objective, and we welcome the decision by the European Commission to triple humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
As Israel continues to deal with the human tragedy caused by the Hamas attack, the EU must stand ready to provide any assistance to help alleviate the suffering of Israeli citizens, families and communities that were affected by these actions.
We stand by EU High Representative Josep Borrell and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in their work to prevent a spillover of this brutal conflict and to maintain continued political engagement with all parties involved.
Israelis and Palestinians both have a right to live in peace. The current circumstances should reinforce the resolve of everyone who recognises this, to find a lasting political solution to this conflict, based on a two-state solution.
