How to end the crisis in the Middle East?
 |
|
Alexander Vondra, Czech Deputy
Prime Minister for European Affairs, Javier Solana
High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy,
Secretary-General of the Council of the European Union
Photo: Council of the European Union
|
At the Council meeting on 26 January, EU foreign ministers agreed to focus the EU's response to the current crisis in Gaza on the following: immediate humanitarian relief for the population of Gaza, prevention of illicit trafficking in arms and ammunition, sustained re-opening of crossing points on the basis of the 2005 Agreement on Movement and Access, rehabilitation and reconstruction and the resumption of the peace process. The EU will take forward this agenda in close cooperation with its Quartet partners and regional actors and in line with its wider approach to the region including its state building efforts. To this end the EU is developing a Work Plan.
The Council deeply deplores the loss of lives during the conflict, particularly the civilian casualties. Investigations into alleged violations of international humanitarian law will be followed closely. The EU is ready to step up its emergency aid contribution and will continue to support the UN and other international organisations in their efforts. It condemns the shelling of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) infrastructure in Gaza.
To be able to bring humanitarian relief to the victims of the conflict and contribute to the rehabilitation, reconstruction and economic development of the Gaza Strip, border crossings will have to be reopened for humanitarian assistance, commercial goods and persons. At the same time, rocket launches towards Israel, and arms and ammunition smuggling to the Gaza Strip will have to be stopped. The EU is ready to reactivate the EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM Rafah).
More information:
Council Press release (pdf)
Council webcast of press conference
Forthcoming events:
Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 10 February