Source: European Parliament
The EU respects the intention of those on board the flotilla ships to draw attention to the humanitarian plight of the population of Gaza. In the EU everyone has the right to exercise activism and freedom of assembly, this is a core pillar of EU values.
The freedom of navigation under international law must also be upheld. At the same time, the EU discourages flotillas. They risk the safety of their participants and carry the potential for escalation. Attacks against such flotillas are not acceptable.
The EU’s focus will always be on delivering aid through proven and effective structures, with its partner organisations on the ground. The authorities responsible for ensuring consular protection are the states to which the citizens belong.
The EU urges the parties and the international community to make all efforts to finally bring this terrible conflict to an end now, through an immediate and permanent ceasefire that enables the provision of a massive, immediate and unimpeded humanitarian assistance.