The European Union expressed deep concern on Tuesday about the deteriorating situation in the occupied West Bank, where violence, intimidation, and destruction of homes and properties by settlers have sharply increased in recent days.
In a press release, the EU condemned all attacks against civilians, including reports of the deaths of four Palestinians. The EU urged Israel, as the occupying power, to intensify efforts to prevent repeated acts of settler violence against Palestinians and to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
The EU reiterated that settlements are illegal under international law and pose an obstacle to peace, adding, “In the current situation, all efforts should be directed towards preventing further tensions and calming escalation.”
Earlier in the evening, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa met with the EU Representative to Palestine, Alexander Stutzman, where he received a letter from EU Foreign Minister Joseph Borrell affirming the EU’s continued support for the Palestinian people and state-building efforts.
During the meeting, Mustafa briefed Stutzman on the government’s priorities, specifically enhancing relief and humanitarian efforts and providing essential services to the Gaza Strip. He emphasized the importance of pressuring Israel to open all crossings with the sector and increase the entry of relief and humanitarian aid, ensuring it reaches all residents in the Gaza Strip.
Mustafa also outlined the government’s plans for institutional reform, economic recovery and stabilization, and enhancing the resilience of the Palestinian people.
