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 might internal divisions among EU member states influence the decision to invoke the human rights clause in relation to Israel?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Human Rights Analyst**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. We’ve been discussing the recent proposals by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. Can you explain the significance of Borrell’s concerns about possible human rights violations?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. Borrell’s concerns highlight critical issues surrounding international humanitarian law. The allegations of human rights violations during the Gaza conflict are serious and warrant thorough examination. Borrell has pointed out that, so far, Israel has not adequately responded to these concerns, which complicates the relationship between the EU and Israel.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like Borrell’s proposal to invoke the human rights clause of the EU-Israel agreement could have significant repercussions. What are the potential implications of such a move?
**Dr. Carter:** Invoking the human rights clause would mark a substantial shift in EU-Israel relations. It could lead to the suspension of certain political engagements and trade privileges. The EU has historically prioritized its trade relations with Israel, but if human rights violations are not addressed, they may feel compelled to take stronger action to uphold their values.
**Interviewer:** Given the history of trade ties since the agreement in 2000, do you think there’s a possibility that the EU may face pushback from member states or Israel itself?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. The EU is made up of diverse member states, each with its own perspective on Israel and Palestine. Some countries may oppose suspending ties, fearing it could undermine diplomatic relations or escalate tensions. Israel is likely to advocate fiercely against any censure, arguing it affects their security and international standing.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what are the challenges going forward for the EU in balancing its principles regarding human rights with its geopolitical interests?
**Dr. Carter:** A major challenge lies in fostering a cohesive foreign policy that reflects EU values on human rights while maintaining strategic alliances. The EU is at a crossroads, advocating for human rights globally while navigating its complex relationship with Israel. We will need to closely watch how the upcoming foreign ministers’ meeting unfolds and the subsequent actions the EU decides to take.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights on this critical issue. It will be interesting to see how this develops.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. I look forward to the next steps in this dialogue.