Spokespersons for the Foreign Ministries of Germany, France, Italy, and Spain issued the following joint statement on the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories:
We are deeply concerned about the ongoing tensions in the Occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. So far in 2022, more than 120 Palestinians and more than 20 Israelis have been killed, and many more have been injured. We also see with great concern the increasing violence, including, from settlers. Against this backdrop, it is now paramount to avoid further escalation. We thus urge all parties to refrain from any provocations and unilateral actions, to actively reduce tension, and to restore calm.
Israel has the right to defend itself against armed attacks and to hold those responsible to account, but this must be done with respect fotohe principles of international law and international humanitarian law. Palestinian security control in area A must be facilitated and effective security coordination restored.
The current tensions serve as a bitter reminder of the urgent need to resume political efforts to achieve a two-state solution, the only solution to permanently guarantee Israelis and Palestinians a life in peace and security.