EU Foreign Policy Chief Calls on Israel to Investigate Shooting Incident Near Diplomats in West Bank
On Wednesday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged Israel to conduct a thorough investigation into an incident where Israeli troops opened fire near diplomats visiting Jenin in the West Bank. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, has raised concerns about the safety of diplomats and the need for accountability in the use of force by Israeli security forces.
Kallas, who is currently on a visit to the region, expressed her deep concern over the incident and called for a swift and transparent investigation. She emphasized the importance of protecting the safety and security of diplomats, who play a crucial role in promoting peace and dialogue between nations.
The shooting incident took place as a group of diplomats from EU member states, including the EU’s representative to the Palestinian Authority, were visiting the Jenin refugee camp. According to reports, Israeli troops opened fire on a group of Palestinian protesters who were throwing stones at them. The diplomats were not harmed, but the incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from the international community.
In her statement, Kallas stressed the need for all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could escalate tensions in the region. She also called on Israel to respect the rights of peaceful protesters and to refrain from using excessive force.
The EU foreign policy chief also reiterated the EU’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, stating that a two-state solution is the only viable option for a lasting peace in the region. She urged both sides to resume meaningful negotiations and work towards a just and lasting solution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Kallas’ call for an investigation has been welcomed by the Palestinian Authority, who have long been calling for international intervention to hold Israel accountable for its actions in the occupied territories. The incident has also drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who have raised concerns about the use of live ammunition against unarmed protesters.
This is not the first time that Israeli security forces have used excessive force against peaceful protesters in the West Bank. The EU has repeatedly called on Israel to respect international law and human rights standards in its handling of protests and demonstrations.
The shooting incident near the diplomats’ visit highlights the need for Israel to review its policies and practices in the occupied territories. The EU has consistently called for an end to the occupation and for the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
As the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kallas has been a strong advocate for peace and stability in the Middle East. Her visit to the region is a testament to the EU’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In conclusion, the EU foreign policy chief’s call for an investigation into the shooting incident near diplomats in the West Bank is a clear message to Israel that the international community is closely monitoring the situation and expects accountability for any use of excessive force. The EU remains committed to supporting a just and lasting solution to the conflict and will continue to work towards a peaceful future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
