European Council president decries ‘unacceptable’ evacuation orders for parts of Rafah

European Council President Charles Michel calls Israel’s orders for Palestinians to evacuate parts of Rafah “unacceptable.”

“We call on the Israeli government to respect international humanitarian law and urge not to undertake a ground operation in Rafah,” Michel says in a statement on X. “Crossing points must be fully functioning and allow essential humanitarian assistance to get through amidst raging famine.”

He also says “all efforts must continue to secure an agreement for a lasting ceasefire” and repeats EU calls for a two-state solution.

“The establishment of a viable State of Palestine is key in this respect, side by side in peace and security with Israel as reflected in the UN resolution,” he adds, referring to yesterday’s General Assembly vote upgrading the status of the Palestinian mission to the United Nations.