The EU asked Israel to stop unilateral steps that would jeopardize the prospect of peace. Following the first face-to-face meeting between the EU High Representative for Foreign Relations and Defense Policy Josep Borrell and Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, the EU’s written statement reaffirmed its commitment to the two-state solution. In the statement, it was reported that the two discussed regional issues as well as the relations between the EU and Israel, and Borrell emphasized that the cooperation between the EU and Israel is very strong.
Borrell stated that the EU is willing to further deepen this relationship against the threat from both Russia and Iran, hoping to hold another Association Council meeting this year.
“Borrell condemned the recent terrorist and rocket attacks against Israelis and underlined the EU’s commitment to Israel’s right to self-defense. He reminded that any response must be proportionate and in line with international law. He also expressed concern over the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories. “
“HIGH VOLTAGE CAN INCREASE…”
“The EU calls on Israel to stop unilateral measures that could escalate the already high tensions and jeopardize the prospect of a just and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution,” Borrell said in a statement. reiterated the importance of respecting the status quo.” expression was used.
In the statement, it was underlined that the EU wanted an open and constructive exchange of ideas with Israel on the Middle East peace process, and emphasized that the EU remained firmly committed to the two-state solution.
Pointing out that the EU supports the normalization agreements Israel has signed with a number of Arab countries, the statement said, “The EU also hopes that these will also benefit the Palestinians. Without this, the positive dynamic of normalization will be incomplete.” it was said.
TENSION BETWEEN BORRELL AND COHEN
There has been tension in the dialogue between Borrell and Cohen before. In a statement made by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs after the phone conversation between the two in March, it was claimed that the EU interfered in Israel’s internal affairs. Borrell denied this accusation, saying, “Settlements are illegal under international law. Is it anti-Israeli to say that? No. Palestinians’ demolition and evacuation, as well as settlement expansion, must be stopped. The Israeli government must seriously oppose the violence of settler extremists and persecute the perpetrators. Military operations must be proportionate and in accordance with international humanitarian law.” made his statements. (AA)