The EU has condemned Hamas and ordered the militant group to release Israeli hostages without preconditions, affirming support for Israel’s right to self-defense within the confines of international law in a statement released by the European Council on Sunday.
Affirming the EU’s commitment to “a lasting and sustainable peace based on the two-state solution through reinvigorated efforts in the Middle East Peace Process,” the statement called for continued engagement with “legitimate Palestinian authorities” and their regional and international partners.
The Council members described humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza as critical for preventing further escalation of hostilities, while reiterating that there was “no justification for terror.” All civilians must be protected “at all times in line with International Humanitarian Law,” the statement read. The EU was “ready to continue supporting those civilians most in need in Gaza in coordination with partners,” so long as it could be ensured that such support was not “abused by terrorist organizations,” it said.