EU missions condemn continuous settlers attacks against Palestinians

The European Union missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah, in a statement Wednesday, reiterated the EU's condemnation of continuous settlers’ violence and deliberate provocations against Palestinian civilians. EU missions are particularly concerned about the increasing number and the severity of recent incidents against Palestinian civilians by extremist settlers in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, said the statement. They welcomed that members of the Israeli government have condemned recent acts of violence by settlers and have pledged compensation for the victims. They also welcomed that legal proceedings have been initiated, including arrests of suspects. EU Missions also expect comprehensive measures by the Government of Israel to prevent settler violence and to protect Palestinian civilians, it said. They called on the government of Israel to bring the perpetrators to justice and to comply with its obligations under international law. EU recalls its position that settlement activity is illegal under international law and threatens to make a two-state solution impossible. Together with settler violence, it undermines the Middle East Peace Process, it added. The international community has repeatedly called upon both parties to refrain from any provocative action, concluded the statement.