Brussels, 22/08/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 22 August, the European Union called for Israelis and Palestinians to resume ceasefire negotiations and reiterating its “full support for Egyptian mediation efforts.”
The truce between Israel and Gaza was broken on 19 August. Negotiators from both sides did not seem to have achieved much in their talks in Cairo, and left the city shortly after the ceasefire was broken.
A spokesman for EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton said: “We condemn in the strongest terms yesterday's breach of the humanitarian ceasefire and renewed rocket fire from the Gaza Strip. We call for an immediate cessation of all violence. Too many innocent civilians have already died.” Some 60 Gaza residents have died since the breaking of the nine-day ceasefire, including three commanders of the armed wing of Hamas. In total, more than 2,000 people have lost their lives in the Gaza Strip and 70 in Israel (including three civilians) since the resumption of violence in early July.
“We appeal to all parties to urgently address the humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza and to comply with international humanitarian law,” added the spokesman.
The European Commission spokesman said: “In line with the Foreign Affairs Council conclusions of August 15, the EU underlines that a comprehensive and sustainable solution must be found, which addresses all the underlying issues afflicting Gaza and enhance the security, welfare and prosperity of Palestinians and Israelis alike” (see EUROPE 11135). (CG)