Statement on the ceasefire in Gaza

EU News 355/2014

Brussels, 27 August 2014
140827/02

"We welcome the ceasefire agreement in Gaza that brings an end to the suffering and loss of life, particularly among civilians. The humanitarian situation in Gaza must now be urgently addressed and we call on the parties to respect the ceasefire.

We commend Egypt's mediation efforts and urge the Israelis and Palestinians to seize this opportunity to negotiate a comprehensive and sustainable agreement. Simply returning to the situation before the latest conflict is not an option.

A sustainable agreement should address all the root causes of the conflict and bring fundamental change to the situation in Gaza. The socio-economic conditions should be improved by ending the Gaza closure regime. The Palestinian government of national consensus, under the leadership of President Abbas, should exercise effective administration of the Gaza Strip. Hamas and other militant groups must stop all threats to Israel. A durable peace can only be achieved through the resumption of the Middle East peace process, leading to a two state solution.

The EU is ready to contribute, together with the international community, to a lasting solution meeting the legitimate security, humanitarian and socio-economic needs of the Israeli and Palestinian peoples."

Source and additional information:
http://www.eeas.europa.eu/statements/docs/2014/140827_02_en.pdf

• Tweet