PES condemns attack in East Jerusalem

The Party of European Socialists sends its condolences to the people of Israel following the bloody terror attack on a bus today in East Jerusalem leaving several civilians dead and others seriously wounded. We unequivocally condemn terrorism and the statements by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad praising this barbarism. There is no place for the glorification of violence.

The PES calls for the protection of all civilians and full respect for international humanitarian law. The hostages must be released, and collective punishment must be rejected.

Reacting to the attack, PES President Stefan Löfven said:

''We stand in solidarity with the families and friends of the victims of the shooting in East Jerusalem today. Terrorism has no place in our society, and we mourn the victims. We reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, for all hostages to be released, unhindered humanitarian access, and renewed efforts towards a two-state solution - the only viable path to a just and lasting peace.''