17 June 2025

EU statement

Mister (Vice) President,

The EU takes note of the report of the Commission of Inquiry and thanks the Commissioners for their presentation. The EU recalls the need for Israel and all other countries to cooperate with relevant HRC mechanisms and mandate holders and fully respect their mandate and independence.

There must be accountability for violations of international law.

We once again call for the immediate release of all hostages and a permanent end to the hostilities, unimpeded access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale into and throughout Gaza.

The EU deeply deplores the unacceptable number of civilians, especially women and children, who have lost their lives, and the catastrophic humanitarian situation notably caused by the insufficient entry of aid into Gaza.

The EU has unequivocally condemned Hamas’ brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks of October 7. In exercising its right to defend itself, Israel must fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian and international human rights law, in all circumstances. 

The EU also strongly condemns the further escalation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, following increased settler violence, the expansion of illegal settlements and Israel’s military operation and increased terrorist attacks against Israel. As the occupying power, Israel is obliged to protect the population under its occupation. 

Given the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, there is an urgent need for the immediate removal of all restrictions to the access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance, in accordance with humanitarian principles and IHL. The EU underlines the protected status under IHL of humanitarian aid workers, which includes both international and local staff.

The EU recalls the need to fully implement the International Court of Justice (ICJ) orders, which are legally binding. The EU reaffirms its unwavering support for the international criminal justice system, particularly to the International Criminal Court, as well as its commitment to upholding the Rome Statute and preserving the ICC’s independence and integrity.

The EU will reject any attempt at demographic or territorial changes in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank and support unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority in accordance with UNSCR 2735, as well as its opposition to any forced displacement of the Palestinian population. Displaced Gazans should be ensured a safe and dignified return to their homes in Gaza.

The EU  is committed to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the two-State solution. The EU will continue to spare no effort to help revive a political process, including through the Global Alliance for the two state solution, and is looking forward to the upcoming High-level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.