28 May 2024
Minister of Foreign Affairs Israel Katz met today (28 May 2024) with the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi. FM Katz thanked Commissioner Várhelyi for his firm stand with the State of Israel, for his full support in the European Union and for his committed call to prevent a cease-fire that does not include the release of the hostages.
FM Katz and Commissioner Várhelyi agreed to collaborate to further expand the European Union sanctions against Iran, with an emphasis on the missile, UAV and nuclear projects.
FM Katz decided to promote, together with Commissioner Várhelyi, additional civil, economic and educational collaborations between the State of Israel and the European Union.
Following the professional meeting, FM Katz and Commissioner Várhelyi met with Gal and Yair, members of the families of hostages Guy Gilboa-Dalal and Gadi Mozes, who shared their stories with the Commissioner.
FM Katz: “I am pleased to know that we have a true friend like you in the European Union. The State of Israel is at war for its future. On October 7, the Hamas rapists and murderers sought to destroy us. The world and the European Union must stand with us to return all the hostages and defeat Hamas. The governments of Spain, Norway and Ireland have chosen to cooperate with the Nukhba terrorists and bolster the terrorist monster – recognition of a Palestinian state constitutes the renunciation of our hostages.”
Commissioner Várhelyi: “I will continue to stand alongside you; you have a friend, we support Israel’s right to self-defense and security. It is clear that I will not agree to a ceasefire without the unconditional release of the hostages. For me, it is impossible to let Hamas escape punishment. Hamas must not remain in Gaza. If they get away with what they have done, October 7 could happen to anyone, anywhere. Hamas could end the war tomorrow and release all the hostages, but they are not doing that.”
Source – Israeli Government