Human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union’s policy on the matter – annual report 2023

Tabled by Pedro Marques, Nacho Sánchez Amor

Added: 11a. Is deeply concerned by the serious violations of international humanitarian law and the continuous deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gaza; calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, an end to violence, for de-escalation and for full compliance with international law and international humanitarian law; reiterates its strong condemnation of the Hamas-led terrorist attacks of 7 October 2023 and calls again for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages; condemns the disproportionate Israeli military response which has caused an unprecedented civilian death toll – particularly among children and women – and a humanitarian catastrophe; calls on the Israeli Government not to take military action in Rafah that would worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian situation and prevent the urgently needed provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance; calls on Israel to cease all indiscriminate attacks against civilians resulting in collective punishment of the population living in Gaza, and to abide by the binding ruling of the International Court of Justice ordering provisional measures; recalls that upholding respect for international law in Gaza and the region is of key importance for safeguarding a rules-based international order; stresses, in this regard, that the EU’s ability to maintain a coherent and principled position will determine its credibility in the international community; recalls that respect for human rights and democratic principles constitutes an essential component of the EU-Israel Association Agreement; takes note of the request to the Commission by two Member States to undertake a review of whether Israel is complying with its obligations under the agreement; calls for the EU to make full use of the leverage provided by the agreement to demand an immediate end to violations and abuses in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza;

Wording as published by the EP, in English. PE756.732