(August 21, 2026)

We highlighted the grave threats facing the integrity and fairness of elections in Israel, specifically the political persecution of parties and parliamentarians representing Arab citizens, alongside racist attempts to undermine their legitimacy.

We also addressed the expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank and the escalation of state terror against Palestinians, carried out by settler milicias with military cooperation and protection and in blunt violation of international law.

We have commenced the meeting by emphasizing the vital role of the European Union and its Member States in combating racism, advancing democratic norms and human rights, and promoting an immediate end to the occupation to achieve a just peace.