The European Union's current presidency Finland is appalled Wednesday at the continuing killing of civilians due to the ongoing Israeli operation in Gaza.

In the statement the Presidency called on Israel to end its military action in Gaza and on the Palestinians to stop firing rockets onto the Israeli side.

The Presidency appealed for calm and restraint on both sides. The spiral of violence will only have serious consequences for the security and political situation in the region, the statement added.

Source: Xinhua