Smoke and flames rise from a tower building as it is destroyed by Israeli air strikes amid a flare-up of Israeli-Palestinian violence, in Gaza City May 12, 2021. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa
Brussels: The European Union (EU) said that the 'grave escalation' in the Occupied Palestinian Territory must stop, adding that the priority must be to protect civilians.
In a statement today, EU High Representative Josep Borrell said that all efforts should be directed at avoiding civilian casualties, and supporting de-escalation, adding the EU is dismayed at the large numbers of civilian deaths and injuries, including children.
He added that the status quo at the holy sites must be respected and freedom of worship guaranteed.
"I am in contact with the relevant parties in the region and with the international community, including through the Middle East Quartet, to de-escalate the situation as a matter of priority and to support efforts aimed at ending further violence."
