EUROPEAN UNION
Brussels

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission issued the following statement today: "I am very concerned by the latest escalation of violence between Gaza and Israel.I condemn the firing of rockets and mortars into Israel, and call on both sides to refrain fromexacerbating the situation. Further regrettable loss of life and injury must be avoided.I support the mediation efforts by Egypt and reiterate that there is no place for violence in theMiddle East. It is only through resumed negotiations that the legitimate aspirations of bothPalestinians and Israelis will be met, through a two-state solution."