Borrell‘s proposal is due to Israel‘s involvement in possible human rights violations in the Gaza war, and in a letter he sent on Wednesday to European Union foreign ministers before their meeting scheduled for next Monday, Borrell referred to “serious concerns about possible violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza.”
“So far, Israel has not adequately addressed these concerns,” he said.
The political dialogue is an essential part of a broader agreement on relations between the European Union and Israel, which also addresses close trade relations, and entered into force in June 2000.
“In light of the considerations described above, I will submit a proposal that the European Union resort to the human rights clause to suspend political dialogue with Israel,” Borrell wrote.
Any suspension would require approval from all 27 EU member states, something diplomats said was “extremely unlikely.”
Three diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity, said several countries objected when a senior EU official briefed ambassadors in Brussels on the proposal on Wednesday.
One diplomat said that Borrell’s proposal aims to send a strong signal that reflects concern about Israel’s behavior in the war.
One of the diplomats also said that there was “surprise” among the ambassadors at the “lack of preparation and preparation” for the proposal.
The proposal will be discussed at the foreign ministers’ meeting, the last that Borrell will chair before the end of his five-year term.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said last week that nearly 70 percent of the verified deaths in the war were women and children, and condemned what it described as a systematic violation of the basic principles of international humanitarian law.
Israel said that it categorically rejects the commission’s report, and the Israeli army indicated that its actions “are consistent with the principles of distinction and proportionality and are preceded by a careful assessment of the possibilities of harming civilians.”
The European Union is seeking to reach a strong, unified position on the Gaza war that broke out on October 7, 2023.
There are countries in the bloc, such as the Czech Republic and Hungary, that strongly support Israel, while other countries, such as Spain and Ireland, confirm their support for the Palestinians.
Source: Reuters
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How can the EU ensure that it effectively promotes human rights while balancing its diplomatic relationships in the region?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Rossini, Human Rights Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rossini. Let’s dive into the recent joint statement from High Representative Josep Borrell and Commissioner Janez Lenarčič regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza. What are the main implications of Borrell’s proposal to possibly invoke the human rights clause in the EU-Israel agreement?
**Dr. Rossini:** Thank you for having me. Borrell’s proposal signals a significant shift in the EU’s approach to its relations with Israel, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. By mentioning the potential human rights violations, he’s indicating that the EU is taking these concerns seriously. If the EU indeed opts to suspend parts of the agreement, it would not only affect trade relations but send a strong message about the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law.
**Editor:** You mentioned the significance of the EU sending a strong message. Why do you think it’s important for the EU to respond in this manner?
**Dr. Rossini:** The EU has a long history of promoting human rights and democracy as part of its foreign policy. By addressing potential violations of international humanitarian law, it reinforces its commitment to these principles. Moreover, in a global context where human rights are increasingly under threat, the EU’s stance could influence other nations to hold governments accountable for their actions and reaffirm the importance of protecting civilian lives during conflicts.
**Editor:** Borrell mentioned that “Israel has not adequately addressed these concerns.” What might be the implications of this lack of response from Israel?
**Dr. Rossini:** The lack of response can have several implications. It can weaken Israel’s diplomatic standing with the EU and other international actors, and may lead to increased scrutiny on its actions in Gaza. If the EU takes tangible action, such as suspending aspects of their agreement, it could set a precedent for how similar situations are addressed in the future. This could, in turn, influence domestic and international perceptions of Israel’s commitment to human rights.
**Editor:** Moving forward, what steps should the EU consider to address the situation more effectively?
**Dr. Rossini:** The EU should prioritize dialogue not only with Israel but also with Palestinian leaders and civil society groups to ensure all voices are heard. It’s crucial for the EU to leverage its relationship with Israel to push for greater accountability and protection of civilians in the region. Additionally, they might consider increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza and employing diplomatic channels to negotiate peaceful resolutions.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Rossini, for your insights on this critical issue. It appears that the path ahead will heavily depend on how both the EU and Israel navigate these challenges.
**Dr. Rossini:** Absolutely, and thank you for the discussion. It’s essential that human rights remain at the forefront of any political dialogue.
