EU High Representative Kallas: Israel’s current actions go beyond proportionate self-defense
EU High Representative Kallas: Israel’s current actions go beyond proportionate self-defense
European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas stated that Israel’s current actions have gone beyond proportionate self-defense, calling for a return to a ceasefire.
Kallas spoke at a press conference following the regular EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting held in Luxembourg.
Reminding that they will hold the first “EU-Palestinian Authority High-Level Dialogue Meeting” this evening with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, Kallas said that all EU countries agree on a two-state solution.
Kallas stated that they proposed €1.6 billion in support over three years for the Palestinian Authority, saying: “We truly want the mediators to return to the negotiating table, to assume the ceasefire, to deliver our humanitarian aid, and for all hostages to be released. It should not be politicized.”
The EU High Representative said, “Israel has the right to defend itself, but its current actions go beyond proportionate self-defense.”
Criticism of the Arab Plan
Kallas said, “We welcome the Arab countries’ plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, but at the same time, it lacks three key elements: security, funding, and governance of Gaza. However, we are ready to work with our international partners to develop these points.”
At the extraordinary Arab League Summit held in Cairo on March 4, the “Arab Plan,” which envisages the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip without displacing Palestinians, was adopted. It was stated that the cost of the plan would amount to approximately 53 billion dollars spread over five years.