Metsola: ‘I Was The First European Leader To Enter Gaza In Over A Decade’
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has spoken up about the situation in Gaza, stating that the suffering of innocents must be alleviated and calling for a two-state solution without the involvement of Hamas.
In comments to Lovin Malta, she also pointed out that she was the first European leader to actually enter Gaza in over a decade when she entered the Strip last February.
However, her comments stopped short of directly criticising the Israeli government’s actions.
These are her comments in full:
“There has never been a moment where the European Parliament has not called for a two-State solution. It is difficult, but the best path to lasting peace.”
“This is something I have said in Israel, in the Knesset and in Ramallah with President Abbas. It is up to each Member State to decide when and if to take that step, but the position of the Parliament has always been clear.”
“The tragic situation is Gaza is horrific and catastrophic, too many children, women and men have died, far too many.”
“We have been doing everything we can to alleviate the suffering of innocents for the last 600 days. And if there is anything I can do to save even one life, I will do it.”
Roberta Metsola in Gaza
“That’s what we did when the European Parliament was the first to call for a ceasefire, increased aid and the release of hostages.”
“We have always reiterated that respect for international and humanitarian law is paramount and that there must be a difference between the terror of Hamas and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.”
“We have time and again underlined that Gaza can only be governed by legitimate Palestinian representation.”
“I was actually in Gaza, the first leader in more than a decade to enter, with humanitarian aid trucks in order to show what Europe is doing on the ground and how much more needs to be done.”
“Even if this has become more difficult, the European Parliament has led efforts to find a path towards a two-State solution.”
“The best way for that to be done is if we find a way forward with real Palestinian leadership, without Hamas, achieve a ceasefire and the release of hostages.”
“The situation remains extremely fragile and the European Parliament will always contribute to a solution that leads to lasting peace and stability.”
READ NEXT: Watch: Maltese Architect Designs Green School Project In Bali And Has Plans For Malta
