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 for Israel if the EU invokes the human rights clause related to their actions in Gaza?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Martinez, International Relations Expert**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Martinez. Recent developments show that Josep Borrell, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, is considering invoking the human rights clause due to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Can you explain the context behind Borrell’s proposal?
**Dr. Martinez**: Absolutely. The situation in Gaza has raised significant concerns regarding potential violations of international humanitarian law amidst the ongoing conflict. Borrell’s reference to these “serious concerns” signals the EU’s acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation. His letter to EU foreign ministers indicates that, so far, Israel has not sufficiently addressed these issues, which is crucial for maintaining a constructive political dialogue.
**Editor**: What does the human rights clause entail, and how would its application impact EU-Israel relations?
**Dr. Martinez**: The human rights clause is part of agreements that the EU has with third countries, emphasizing respect for human rights as a foundational element of their relationship. If the EU were to suspend or invoke this clause, it could mean a significant reevaluation of trade relations and political dialogue with Israel. Such a move would pressure Israel to reassess its actions and potentially lead to a more protective approach towards human rights in the region.
**Editor**: Many are concerned about the implications of such a proposal. Could this lead to further escalations in the conflict?
**Dr. Martinez**: That’s a valid concern. While invoking the human rights clause could signal a strong stance from the EU on human rights, any move perceived as punitive could exacerbate tensions. Israel may view this as an affront to its sovereignty, possibly leading to a backlash. It’s a delicate balancing act for the EU—aiming to uphold international law while not compromising diplomatic relations or peace efforts.
**Editor**: In your opinion, what should be the next steps for the EU following Borrell’s proposal?
**Dr. Martinez**: The EU should continue to engage in dialogue with Israel while also ensuring that human rights concerns are at the forefront of discussions. It’s critical for the EU to offer a constructive path forward, emphasizing that any economic or political consequences are aimed at fostering compliance with international standards rather than merely being punitive. Collaborative approaches that involve both sides might facilitate a more positive outcome.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for sharing your insights on this complex issue. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Martinez**: Thank you for having me!
