The EU called for urgent ceasefire between Israelis and Palestinians to end the ongoing Israeli onslaught against the blockaded Gaza Strip.
A written statement from the EU came on Friday, a day after the Israeli army launched a ground operation against the long-besieged territory on top of 11 days of relentless airstrikes, which together have killed at least 279 Palestinians and injured more than 2,210.
Although Israel has the right to defend itself from attacks, it must, however, always act proportionately, and protect civilians, the statement said.
Expressing deepest concern about the attack, the statement followed that the EU is ready to give support to ensure peace and security through a sustainable solution of both parties.
The EU also underlined that it welcomes the efforts of regional partners, particularly Egypt.
Egypt issued its ceasefire proposal earlier this week. While Israel initially accepted the plan, it was rejected by Hamas and Islamic Jihad, who said they were never consulted to discuss the plan's terms.
Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry, who are also deeply concerned about the ongoing attacks of Israel, may become much worse.
"We call on the parties to do all that is possible to end the clashes," according to a written statement released by Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday.
Russia is ready to contribute towards a solution of the crisis through bilateral or multilateral negotiations, the statement followed.
Gaza-based resistance factions have continued to fire rockets at Israel – some of which have reached Tel Aviv.
Israel's military operation, dubbed "Operation Protective Edge," is the self-proclaimed Jewish state's third major offensive against the embattled Gaza Strip – home to some 1.8 million Palestinians – in the last six years.
http://www.aa.com.tr/en
