European Council President Charles Michel underlined that “nothing can justify the terror and cruelty unleashed by Hamas against Israel” and insisted that Israel has the right to defend itself, in line with international humanitarian law. Stressing that “each civilian life matters”, President Michel noted that “a total siege is not in line with international law” and called for humanitarian pauses and corridors to Gaza, to ensure aid gets to those in need.

He also restated the EU’s strong support for Ukraine, for “as long as it is needed” and commended the country’s progress towards EU accession. Charles Michel also referred to the discussions about the long-term EU budget, which should keep Ukraine as a priority, together with migration, security, defence and inter-member state solidarity.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the dire humanitarian situation in the Middle East and the EU’s commitment to aid and to finding a two-state solution…