The European Union’s top diplomat, Josep Borrell, has invited Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz to a special meeting to discuss Israel’s adherence to human rights obligations under the EU-Israel cooperation agreement.
Key Points:
Meeting Announcement: Josep Borrell announced on social media that the EU wants to discuss Israel’s human rights record in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This decision comes after a unanimous agreement from the EU’s 27 foreign ministers.
Background: The EU-Israel Association Agreement, signed in 2000, forms the legal foundation for trade relations between the EU and Israel. It includes a clause that cooperation must be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles.
Gaza Conflict: The meeting aims to address concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and how Israel plans to comply with an International Court of Justice ruling to halt its offensive in Rafah.
Call for Review: Three months ago, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and then Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar called for a review of the EU-Israel agreement, citing serious human rights concerns in Gaza.
Diplomatic Tensions: While Borrell claimed strong support for the meeting, sources indicate that two EU member states had reservations, wanting clarity on other available options before convening Israel.
Timing and Presidency: Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib, whose country currently holds the EU Council presidency, hopes the meeting can be held within a month. Belgium will hand over the presidency to Hungary, a strong supporter of Israel, at the end of June.
Trade Relations: Europe is Israel’s main trading partner, accounting for nearly a third of all trade. This relationship gives the EU significant leverage to influence Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Potential Sanctions: Some EU countries, especially Ireland, are urging a firmer stance, including the possibility of sanctions against Israel. Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin mentioned that EU foreign ministers are now seriously discussing this option for the first time.
The EU’s move to convene this meeting underscores growing concerns over human rights violations in Gaza and highlights the potential for significant diplomatic pressure on Israel.
