COPENHAGEN, 15 October 2023 – The President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, Pia Kauma (MP, Finland), together with Special Representative on the Mediterranean, Pascal Allizard (MP, France), today issued the following statement regarding developments in the Middle East:

“A week ago we all watched in shock and horror as Israel was devastated by terrorist attacks launched by Hamas. Violent attacks on civilians is simply unacceptable.

Israel’s response must be aimed at disarming terrorist groups and stopping further indiscriminate violence. We call for this to be done in full accordance with international humanitarian law, and with the well-being of innocent civilians – both Israeli and Palestinian – in mind.

Peace in the region is long overdue, and we call on political leaders to redouble efforts to bring an end to the violence that has plagued the region for so long.”