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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What are the potential consequences of the EU suspending its cooperation with Israel on international relations in the Middle East?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Russo, International Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Russo. Recently, EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell raised serious concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza and indicated that the EU might consider suspending its cooperation with Israel. Can you give us context on why this proposal is being considered?
**Dr. Russo:** Thank you for having me. The proposal by Borrell comes amid growing international scrutiny regarding Israel’s military operations in Gaza, particularly in light of allegations of human rights violations and breaches of international humanitarian law. Borrell’s letter to EU foreign ministers highlights that these concerns have not been adequately addressed by Israel, which is a critical factor in the EU’s consideration of its diplomatic relations with the country.
**Interviewer:** What implications could the suspension of the EU’s human rights clause have on EU-Israel relations and beyond?
**Dr. Russo:** If the EU resorts to the human rights clause to suspend its agreements with Israel, it could have significant repercussions. Such a move could lead to a deterioration of diplomatic ties and impact trade relations that have been in place since 2000. Additionally, it may set a precedent for how the EU engages with other countries accused of similar violations, reshaping the EU’s foreign policy framework.
**Interviewer:** Many argue that the EU has historically supported Israel. How might this change in stance affect the EU’s role in the broader Middle East peace process?
**Dr. Russo:** The EU has indeed been a long-time ally of Israel, but this situation puts the EU in a very delicate position. A shift in its approach could alter the dynamics of the peace process, possibly empowering other regional actors who advocate for Palestinian rights. Ultimately, it may either open pathways for renewed dialogue or exacerbate tensions, depending on how effectively the EU can balance its call for human rights with its political and economic interests in the region.
**Interviewer:** Borrell mentioned the need for a political dialogue. In your opinion, what might this dialogue look like moving forward?
**Dr. Russo:** Moving forward, a constructive political dialogue would need to focus on accountability and transparency regarding human rights. It should include engaging both Israeli and Palestinian officials to promote a balanced discourse that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. Reinvigorating this dialogue, while ensuring it is grounded in international law, will be crucial for any meaningful steps toward peace and stability in the region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Russo. Your insights are incredibly valuable in understanding this complex situation.
**Dr. Russo:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential that discussions continue and that all perspectives are considered in this challenging time.