Informal video conference of foreign affairs ministers, 10 October 2023, 10 October 2023

Main results

EU ministers of Foreign Affairs held an informal videoconference during which they discussed the situation in Israel and in the region following recent attacks by Hamas.

In line with the co-chairs’ statement published earlier after the 27th GCC-EU Joint Council, EU ministers in their internal meeting condemned the recent attacks, called for the protection of civilians and restraint, the release of hostages, for allowing access to food, water and medicines to Gaza in line with international humanitarian law, and opening humanitarian corridors.

Ministers also stressed the importance of preparing the aftermath of the attacks, strengthening the cooperation with regional and international players with a view to reviving the Middle East Peace Process.

The international community has to use this critical moment – this could be an awakening moment – in order to reengage with the problem of Palestine and Israel.

Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

Ministers reiterated Israel’s right to self-defence, in full respect of international humanitarian law.

Ministers then discussed how to continue cooperation with the Palestinian Authority and support the Palestinian people.

We made a clear distinction between Hamas, the Palestinian people and the Palestinian Authority. We consider Hamas a terrorist organisation […] but the Palestinian authority is another thing, the Palestinian authority is our partner. We do not deal with Hamas but, yes, we support, we deal and we work together with the Palestinian authority. And not all the Palestinian people are terrorists. So a collective punishment against all Palestinians will be unfair and unproductive. It will be against our interests and the interest of the peace. Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

An overwhelming majority of ministers stated that the cooperation with the Palestinian Authority should continue and EU funds should not be discontinued.

Ministers agreed that the EU will continue its engagement with all parties and maintain its financial and political support for the region. It will also make sure that its long-term commitment to a political solution based on two states survives these tragic events.