Brussels, 14/03/2014 (Agence Europe) - On 13 March, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton strongly condemned the rocket attacks on Israel by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and called for “for an immediate end to such acts”. “There can be absolutely no justification for the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians”, she said. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad is considered by the EU as a terrorist organisation. Recalling its support for the consolidation of the ceasefire of 21 November 2012, the EU “urges maximum restraint in order to prevent a further escalation” and calls for “an end to all violence”, Ashton said.
She regretted the recent incidents that have led to the loss of life in the West Bank. At least five Palestinians died on 10-11 March during various clashes with the Israeli police.
Ashton reiterated that the situation in the Gaza Strip, “including the deteriorating humanitarian conditions”, underlines once more “the urgent need to bring a solution to the conflict”. “The on-going negotiations are a unique opportunity to move towards a two-state solution”, she added. The EU foreign affairs ministers will discuss the Middle East peace process at their Foreign Affairs Council on 17 March. (CG)