The Commission’s spokesperson condemned killing of five journalists, four health workers, and a number of civilians in Gaza on Monday by an Israeli strike targeting the Nasser hospital in south of Gaza Strip. The EU reiterates its call on Israel to respect international humanitarian law and to ensure that such attacks are investigated.
Monday’s attacks killed at least 20 people, including five journalists. The journalists worked for Reuters, Associated Press, Al Jazeera network, and the Middle East Eye website.
Civilians in Gaza have suffered too long and too much, and it is time to break this cycle of violence and suffering. — Anouar El Anouni, Commission spokesperson
“Civilians and journalists must be protected under international law,” the Commission’s spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said. “Civilians in Gaza have suffered too long and too much, and it is time to break this cycle of violence and suffering (…) The EU stands in solidarity with the families of the victims, with the journalistic community, and with all civilians in Gaza who continue to pay the highest price,” he added in an official statement.
Israel under pressure
“The European Union once again calls on Israel to respect international humanitarian law and ensure that these attacks are investigated, and takes note of the Israeli authorities’ statement that a thorough investigation will be carried out,” said the EU spokesman. In its dialogue with Israel, Brussels always emphasizes that civilians and journalists must be protected at all times, he added.
Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality, had criticised the attack on the hospital already on Monday. “One of the main, only partially functioning hospitals in Gaza has been hit again,” she wrote on social media. “It is with a very heavy heart that I learnt of several civilian casualties, including journalists, during the strikes at Nasser Hospital. Medics and rescuers were also killed. All of them doing their job,” she added.
Israel has repeatedly targeted hospitals and journalists in Gaza. The Jewish State faces criticism from many state parties and international organizations. As an example, the UN and the EU condemned the killing of four Al Jazeera journalists, including well-known reporter Anas Sharif. That happened also during a strike on a hospital in Gaza earlier this month.
EU foreign ministers will discuss situation in the Gaza Strip again at their informal meeting in Denmark on 30 August. The possible suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement is likely to be on the table. However, there is currently no consensus within the EU on such a step.
