In light of Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks against Israel and the unfolding tragic scenes in the Gaza Strip resulting from the siege, President Charles Michel convened an extraordinary European Council meeting by video conference.
It is of utmost importance that the European Council, in line with the Treaties and our values, sets our common position and establishes a clear unified course of action that reflects the complexity of the unfolding situation.
European Council President Charles Michel
EU leaders once again condemned Hamas’ horrific terrorist attacks against Israel and its population.
The European Union condemns in the strongest possible terms Hamas and its brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks across Israel and deeply deplores the loss of lives. There is no justification for terror.
Statement agreed by the 27 members of the European Council on the situation in the Middle East
They expressed their full solidarity with the people of Israel. Israel has the right to defend itself – always in line with humanitarian and international law.
The members of the European Council also reiterated their call on on Hamas to immediately release all hostages without any precondition.
The European Council will be constantly monitoring the situation and coordinating in order to make sure to stay united.
Humanitarian assistance
The EU is mobilised to ensure access to humanitarian assistance – access to water, electricity, food, medicine – for the populations most in need, in coordination with the United Nations.
Civilians must be protected everywhere.
European Council President Charles Michel
Engagement with partners
The European Council will continue to politically and diplomatically engage with regional partners to seek a lasting and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution.
The objectives are to :
- avoid any regional escalation of the conflict
- assess the impact of the conflict on neighbouring countries
Domestic security issues
As the conflict appears to be polarising our societies, the European Council will cooperate to:
- prevent security risks
- fight against hate speech such as antisemitism, islamophobia and racism
Migration
The European Council also discussed the potential migratory impacts of the conflict, notably on Egypt.