The European Union condemned what it calls "the rise in settler violence, intimidation of Palestinian civilians, and destruction of homes and property in Judea and Samaria." In a statement published by the EU, it mentioned the "killing of three Palestinians in the village of Malik two days ago," along with a call for Israel "to take concrete steps to prevent settler violence - and ensure prosecution of those responsible." The statement also noted that "settlements are illegal under international law - and constitute an obstacle to peace."