EU Criticizes Israel's Gaza Actions as Exceeding Self-Defense

Kaja Kallas, the European Union's top diplomat, emphasized that while Israel has the right to self-defense against Hamas, its military actions in Gaza since October 7 are disproportionate. She condemned the wide-scale destruction and civilian casualties resulting from Israel's response, aligning with previous EU statements. Kallas announced the EU's commitment of €1.6 billion until 2027 to support the Palestinian people, focusing on stabilizing the West Bank and Gaza through humanitarian aid and infrastructure investment. Additionally, she reiterated that Hamas should not play a role in the governance of Gaza due to security concerns for Israel. Kallas's remarks were made during a press conference where she stressed the need for negotiations to alleviate suffering on both sides. The EU continues to advocate for proportional military responses in the ongoing conflict.