EU nations stress 'Israel's right to defend itself' within international law

Leaders of the 27 European Union member states stressed "Israel's right to defend itself in line with humanitarian and international law in the face of such violent and indiscriminate attacks" by Hamas, in a statement Sunday.

"We reiterate the importance of the provision of urgent humanitarian aid and stand ready to continue supporting those civilians most in need in Gaza... ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations," the statement said, adding, "it is crucial to prevent regional escalation" of the conflict.