Brussels, 28 June 2014
11421/14
(OR. en)
PRESSE 378
Declaration on behalf of the European Union on the latest developments
following the abduction of three Israeli students
The EU reiterates its condemnation of the recent abduction of three Israeli students in the West Bank and calls once again for their immediate release and safe return to their families. Such acts can only undermine international efforts to encourage a resumption of peace negotiations.
The EU commends President Abbas for his unequivocal condemnation of the abduction and welcomes the cooperation of the Palestinian security services in the search for the abductees. Statements made by some Hamas leaders that glorify the perpetrators of the abduction are unacceptable.
The EU regrets the violence which has erupted in the West Bank as a result of the abduction, in particular the killing of several Palestinians, and calls on Israel to use proportionate means only to bring about the return of the abductees. We also condemn recent indiscriminate rocket fire from Gaza. We call on all sides to exercise maximum restraint and to avoid any further escalation which will worsen the situation.
The recent events underline the urgent need for peace negotiations to resume.
Document Type: Declaration, Press Release, Statement
Document Sources: European Union (EU)
Subject: Armed conflict, Casualties, Gaza Strip, Human rights and international humanitarian law, Incidents, Incursions, Occupation, Peace process, Peace proposals and efforts, Population, Protection, Security issues, Terrorism
Publication Date: 28/06/2014