EU statement on increasing number and severity of settler attacks against Palestinian civilians – Statement/Non-UN document

Jerusalem, 5 September 2012

Local EU Statement on the increasing number and severity of settler

attacks against Palestinian civilians

EU missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah reiterate the EU's condemnation of continuous settler violence and deliberate provocations against Palestinian civilians. EU missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah 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.

The EU missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah welcome that members of the Israeli government have condemned recent acts of violence by settlers and have pledged compensation for the victims. They also welcome that legal proceedings have been initiated, including arrests of suspects. The EU Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah also expect comprehensive measures by the Government of Israel to prevent settler violence and to protect Palestinian civilians. They call on the government of Israel to bring the perpetrators to justice and to comply with its obligations under international law.

The 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. The international community has repeatedly called upon both parties to refrain from any provocative action.

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