The leaders of the European Union (EU) will meet by videoconference in a extraordinary summit next Tuesday, October 17, to set a “common position” before the crisis between Israel and the Islamist movement Hamas.
“The tragedy that is unfolding has many consequences for Europe. That is why I am calling an extraordinary European Council to establish a common position and a unified and clear line of action,” announced this Saturday the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, on social network X.
In a letter addressed to the heads of State and Government of the Union, Michel stressed that “nothing justifies the brutal terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel” on the 7th and assured that “we are in full solidarity” with the people of Israel and with the victims of terrorist attacks.
He also requested the release of all hostages “immediately and without preconditions” and said that “there is no justification for terror.”
“Israel has the right to defend itself in full respect of international law, in particular international humanitarian law,” he stressed.
At the same time, he stated that “the tragic scenes that are unfolding in the Gaza Strip “As a consequence of the siege and the lack of basic needs, combined with the destruction caused by the major bombings, are raising alarm bells in the international community.”
Therefore, he called for a extraordinary meeting of the European Council by videoconference next Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. (3:30 p.m. GMT).
“It is of utmost importance that the European Council, in line with the treaties and our values, establishes our common position and establishes a clear unified line of action that reflects the complexity of the situation that is developing,” he explained.
“Strong defender of peace”
Michel highlighted that this conflict “has many consequences, also for us in the European Union.”
The Belgian politician recalled that the EU “has always been and must be a staunch defender of peace and respect for international law, as in the case of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine”.
“The Union must work to provide humanitarian aid and avoid a regional escalation of the conflict and any violation of humanitarian law,” he stressed.
Likewise, he considered “fundamental” a “firm commitment” with regional actors, who he assured are “those most affected by the conflict and can play an effective role.”
“We must never lose sight of the importance of seeking a lasting and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution through renewed efforts in the Middle East peace process,” he said.
Related news
He also warned that the conflict “could have important consequences for the security of our societies.” “If we are not careful, it can exacerbate tensions between communities and fuel extremism“, warning.
Finally, he pointed out that there is a ‘significant risk’ of large numbers of people migrating and move to neighboring countries, which already have a significant number of refugees in their territory, he recalled. “If not managed carefully, there is a risk of waves of migration to Europe,” she said. “It is imperative that we address all of these challenges together. Our unity is our strength,” she concluded.