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 activating the human rights clause in its relations with Israel?
**Interview with Human Rights Advocate Sarah Thompson on Borrell’s Proposal Concerning Israel**
**Editor:** Today, we have Sarah Thompson, a human rights advocate and policy analyst, to discuss the recent proposal by EU Foreign Affairs Chief Josep Borrell regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. Welcome, Sarah.
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you for having me.
**Editor:** Let’s dive right in. Borrell expressed “serious concerns about possible violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza.” What do you make of his statement and the potential implications for EU-Israel relations?
**Sarah Thompson:** Borrell’s statement reflects a significant shift in the EU’s approach to Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His concerns about human rights violations are a call for accountability. If the EU were to activate the human rights clause, it could mean a reevaluation of trade relations with Israel, which could be a powerful leverage for ensuring compliance with international law.
**Editor:** He mentioned that ”Israel has not adequately addressed these concerns.” What do you think needs to happen for Israel to adequately respond?
**Sarah Thompson:** For Israel to adequately respond, there needs to be a transparent investigation into the allegations of human rights violations. This involves cooperation with international bodies and making the findings public. It’s crucial that Israel takes these concerns seriously, as failing to do so could erode its standing in the international community.
**Editor:** Borrell’s proposal is part of a broader agreement on EU-Israel relations that’s been in place since 2000. How might this situation alter that longstanding partnership?
**Sarah Thompson:** If the EU decides to exercise its human rights clause, it could redefine the nature of the partnership. The EU has historically supported Israel both politically and economically, but a firm stance on human rights could alter that dynamic. It may lead to a more conditional relationship, where Israel’s actions are continuously monitored against international standards.
**Editor:** What would you like to see as the next steps from the EU in this situation?
**Sarah Thompson:** I would like to see the EU take a firm yet diplomatic approach. This means continuing dialogue with Israel while also establishing clear benchmarks for human rights compliance. The EU should not hesitate to use its leverage to push for urgent changes, especially for the sake of the civilians caught in the crossfire.
**Editor:** Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. It’s a rapidly evolving situation, and your perspective is invaluable as we continue to follow these developments.
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this urgent matter.