"The outbreak of terror in Israel, a long-standing partner of our Organisation, is appalling. I condemn in the strongest possible terms the terrorist crimes of Hamas, which have claimed the lives of so many innocent people and caused so many injuries. The Council of Europe stands firmly with the victims, their families, and their loved ones. Our support and solidarity are full and unreserved.
“I also welcome the resolute action taken by the governments of our Member States to block the path of extremists on all sides, in order to prevent the Middle East conflict from being exported to Europe. Our fellow citizens of the Jewish faith must continue to feel safe in their homes. Anti-Semitism – wherever it comes from – is unacceptable and must be fought relentlessly. The Council of Europe is a peace project. Our Organisation is determined to protect the flourishing of Jewish communities in our Member States, wherever they may be. Peaceful coexistence is based on mutual understanding and respect.
“I also call on the Israeli authorities, in their legitimate response to the aggression suffered, to remain faithful to our democratic values, to respect the principle of proportionality and to strictly protect civilian populations. The necessary response to terrorism by democracies cannot and must not contradict our values."
