The high representative of the European Union for Foreign Policy, Josep Borrell, denounced that “some actions” by Israel in response to the offensive launched by Hamas “go against international law.” “You have the right to defend yourself, but you must do so in accordance with international law, humanitarian law, and some decisions are contrary,” Borrell declared in reference to actions such as the blockade of supplies in the Gaza Strip.
“We condemn all attacks against civilians, all means all,” said the head of European diplomacy in statements from Oman, alluding to the joint declaration reached between the EU and the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, in which they have expressed his “deep concern” about the evolution of events.
Although Borrell did not hesitate to classify Hamas’ terrorist actions as a “barbaric attack,” he insisted that any defense has to follow humanitarian law and “in some cases that is not the case.” One of the examples was the decision of the Israeli Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, who ordered this Monday the “complete siege” on Gaza.
In this context, Borrell assured that the European bloc condemns “all attacks against civilians” in the Middle East and has asked, in the midst of the Hamas offensive and in the face of the border blockade, that humanitarian corridors be opened. “It must be made easier for people who want to flee to go to Egypt, because the border is closed,” he stressed.
“Not all Palestinians are terrorists, so collective punishment would be unfair and unproductive. “It would go against our interests and against the interests of peace,” he emphasized.
