The Republic of Croatia condemns the most recent escalation of violence in Southern Israel and the Gaza strip that has resulted in many civilian casualties. We regret the loss of human lives and express our condolences to the families of the victims. We emphasise that attacks on civilians are unacceptable and must stop immediately, and we join in the statement of the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy and Security, Catherine Ashton. Israel is entitled to protect its citizens, but it must see to it that the response is proportionate in order to stop further escalation and loss of lives.
The Republic of Croatia hopes that this escalation of violence will not cause the initiative to resume Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations to grind to a halt, which would be detrimental to the peace prospects in the region.
Croatia welcomes any constructive steps on both sides with a view to building confidence again, and the efforts to reach peaceful and sustainable solution in accordance with international principles and justice.