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 proposed suspension of EU-Israel dialog for the future of EU-Israel relations?**
**Interview with Jean-Claude Borrell on Proposed Suspension of EU-Israel Dialogue**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Mr. Borrell, and thank you for joining us today to discuss your recent proposal regarding the European Union’s dialog with Israel. You’ve raised serious concerns about possible violations of international humanitarian law during the ongoing Gaza conflict. Can you elaborate on what prompted this proposal?
**Borrell:** Good morning, and thank you for having me. The situation in Gaza has reached alarming levels, and it has become increasingly evident that there may be significant human rights violations occurring. In my letter to the EU foreign ministers, I expressed these concerns explicitly, stating that Israel has not adequately addressed the allegations against its military actions. It’s imperative that we uphold our commitment to human rights and the rule of law.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that Israel has not sufficiently responded to these concerns. What specific actions or responses are you looking for from Israel to ease these worries?
**Borrell:** We are looking for transparency and accountability. This includes independent investigations into the alleged violations and concrete measures to protect civilians in conflict zones. We expect Israel, as a partner in our longstanding relationship, to engage constructively on these issues—failure to do so compels us to consider our diplomatic methods, including the suspension of existing political dialog.
**Interviewer:** The EU-Israel relationship is built on a broad agreement that not only encompasses political dialog but also trade relations. How do you think this proposal could impact those economic ties?
**Borrell:** The implications could be significant. Our cooperation is extensive, and while we are committed to dialog, the EU also has values it must uphold, including respect for human rights. The human rights clause in our agreements allows us to reassess our relationship in light of serious violations. If we do not address these issues now, it could undermine the entire framework of our mutual understanding.
**Interviewer:** The foreign ministers are set to meet soon. What are your expectations from that meeting in terms of a unified EU response?
**Borrell:** I hope for a robust discussion around my proposal. It’s crucial that the EU presents a united front on human rights and international law. This is not just about the situation in Gaza; it’s about our credibility as a global leader in promoting these principles. A united response could send a strong signal to Israel and the international community that we are serious about human rights.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Borrell, for sharing your insights. We appreciate your dedication to ensuring that the EU’s actions align with its values.
**Borrell:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue to engage in these critical conversations to protect human rights globally.