EU Presidency Statement on increased violence in Gaza

Press release 444/2006
4 November, 2006

The Presidency of the European Union is profoundly concerned by increased violence in Gaza. The Presidency deplores the growing number of civilian casualties the Israeli military operation has caused. The right of all states to defend themselves does not justify disproportionate use of violence or actions which are contrary to international humanitarian law.

The Presidency calls on the Palestinian leadership to bring an end to terrorist activities, including the firing of rockets on Israeli territory.

Violence will only aggravate an already grave situation in the region where a return to the peace process is urgently needed.