Chairwoman Hautala condemns the Israeli strike against a flotilla of civilian vessels transporting humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip.[:] Ms Hautala expresses her condolences to the victims’ families and strongly condemns the acts of violence that took place onboard the ships.

The solution for the problems in Gaza is not to be found through acts of violence. Peaceful solutions must be pursued, for that way lies the only possibility for a dignified resolution to the conflict.

Chairwoman Hautala emphasises that a full, independent investigation has to be made about this tragic event.

MEP Hautala supports the European Union’s call for an immediate, sustained and unconditional opening of crossings for the flow of humanitarian aid, commercial goods and persons to and from Gaza. Demanding these necessities, the European Union must remain firm and determined in its reactions towards Israel.

The Green Group in the European Parliament has made a request for a Council and Commission statement regarding the events in Gaza, pursuing a a resolution in the Plenary session of the European Parliament in June.