Israel may find itself isolated by the global community if it does not stop violating international law in the Gaza Strip, European Council President Charles Michel said on Thursday.
"We all advise Israel to adhere to international law in exercising its defense," Michel said in an interview with the French media, adding that "Israel is not interested in being isolated from the international community at a certain point. Therefore, it is important for Israel to be careful about these rules."
He also said that a complete blockade of the entire enclave is not compatible with international law, and the protection of civilians must be ensured.
The settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through a two-state solution is an "absolute priority" for the European Union, Michel said.
"I think it is necessary to use the coming weeks to organize an international conference. The EU can and should take the lead to push for this two-state solution, to prepare a concrete plan, concrete solutions that can serve as the basis for a compromise," he added.
On October 7, Palestinian group Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israel from Gaza, killing and abducting people in neighboring Israeli communities. Israel retaliated with missile strikes and a complete blockade of the Gaza Strip, home to more than 2 million people. On October 27, Israel launched a large-scale ground incursion into Gaza with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas and rescuing the hostages.