Following are some statements from European leaders and governments to the rocket fire from Gaza at Israel :
French President Emmanuel Macron :
“I strongly condemn the rocket fire from Gaza and express solidarity with the population that was harmed by it. The cycle of violence must stop and all civilians must be protected.’’
EU Foreign Affairs Chief Federica Mogherini on behalf of the 28 EU member states:
”Indiscriminate rocket attacks from Palestinian militants in Gaza must stop immediately: the European Union reiterates its fundamental commitment to the security of Israel. We express our condolences to the family of all the victims and to the Israeli people, and wish a speedy recovery to the wounded.
These attacks provoke unspeakable suffering to the Israelis and serve only the cause of endless violence and of an endless conflict.
A new escalation risks also to reverse the work to relieve the suffering of the people in Gaza who are already paying a high price with many victims that we mourn. And it puts in further danger the prospects for long-term solutions, which will require the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza, credible security guarantees for Israel and a lifting of restrictions of access and movement.
The European Union reiterates its full support to the push of Egypt and the United Nations to reduce tensions in Gaza and expect the parties to work with them to restore calm. Together with the international community, we will keep working to bring relief to all those suffering from this conflict and cooperating with those who serve the cause of peace.”
Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney :
‘’I unequivocally condemn the indiscriminate rocket fire from Gaza over the last two days, which has led to civilian deaths and injuries.’’
‘These actions undermine the cause of the Palestinian people. The unjust treatment of Gaza and the suffering of people there will never be solved by violence or terrorist attacks.”
He called for “an end to indiscriminate attacks on civilians and for restraint in terms of the Israeli response, which has already led to several deaths in Gaza.”
Czech President Milos Zeman :
“As a sincere friend of Israel, I strongly condemn the terrorist bombardment of this country so close to us. We must not be silent now, but loudly on Israel’s side!”
Poland’s foreign ministry :
‘’We condemn the massive and indiscriminate rocket fire” on Israeli cities as “an act of terror that cannot be accepted.’’
German foreign ministry :
‘’We condemn the massive rocket fire on Israel. “There is nothing that could justify attacks on civilians. Israel has the right to defend itself and to protect its citizens.’’
“We are very concerned about the ongoing military confrontation and urge all sides to exercise restraint and the safeguard proportionality.’’
Austria’s government spokesman Peter Launsky:
‘’We strongly condemn the Gaza rocket fire. Full support for “Israel‘s right to defend itself.”
“Austria firmly stands behind Israel as the security of the country and its population is a raison d’état for Austria.’’
Sweden Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom :
‘’We express alarm at the escalation in Gaza and southern Israel and the tragic loss of lives.’’