Israeli attack on Gaza Peace Flotilla

The Co-Presidents of the Greens/EFA in the European Parliament, Rebecca Harms and Daniel Cohn-Bendit today sent a letter to Catherine Ashton, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the EU Commission, which follows:

Dear Ms Ashton,

Following several deaths as a result of an Israeli military attack on a humanitarian boat convoy last night, the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament call on you, as HR/VP to ensure an urgent political response to these events.

The EU should:

• Urge the quick establishment of an international enquiry with the utmost transparency to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this attack and to guarantee full accountability
• Give full support and assistance to all those present on the boats, including human rights and peace activists. This includes ensuring that all these people are treated according to international human rights standards.  
• Take the necessary steps to completely and unconditionally lift the current blockade against the Gaza population which has not only resulted in severe and dramatic civilian suffering but has also strengthened the most radical and extremist groups.
• Call on all parties to refrain from any acts which may escalate tensions
• Make convincing efforts towards establishing a two-state solution
• We have requested a debate on this issue in the June Plenary in your presence. We want you to give a strong political European message not only to the Israeli government but also to show solid support to the Palestinian population in Gaza.

 Yours sincerely, Rebecca Harms and Daniel Cohn-Bendit

Co-Presidents

Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament