The European Union expressed its concern regarding Israel's new plan "to control the Gaza sector" and urged Tel Aviv "to refrain from actions that could undermine the viability of the two-state solution and diminish the chances for peace and stability in the region."
Commenting on the situation in Gaza, where Israel conducts military operations against Palestinian groups, including rocket attacks and water and air bombardments, the EU also expressed "solidarity" regarding "the victims and suffering, including the forced displacement of civilians."
In an official statement on November 17, it said: "The EU reaffirms its readiness to discuss with Israel all security measures, including self-defense measures that may be necessary to protect its citizens, emphasizing that such actions must be proportional and respect human rights and international humanitarian law."
