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 specific evidence has led Josep Borrell to assert that violations of international humanitarian law are occurring in Gaza?
**Interview with Josep Borrell Fontelles, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Borrell. You recently raised serious concerns regarding potential violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza. What specific actions have led you to believe that these violations are occurring?
**Borrell:** Thank you for having me. The situation in Gaza has escalated significantly, and we are witnessing reports of actions that appear to contravene international humanitarian law. My decision to address this issue arises from a culmination of evidence, testimonies, and reports that indicate a pattern of conduct that raises alarms.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that Israel has not adequately addressed these concerns. Could you elaborate on what kind of response or actions you are expecting from Israel?
**Borrell:** I believe it is crucial for Israel to engage in a transparent and constructive dialogue regarding these allegations. The international community expects accountability, and it is imperative that Israel responds to our concerns directly and transparently. An acknowledgment and thorough investigation into these claims can help ensure that humanitarian principles are upheld.
**Interviewer:** You have indicated that you will propose utilizing the human rights clause in the EU’s agreements with Israel. What implications would this have for EU-Israel relations?
**Borrell:** By invoking the human rights clause, we would be making a serious statement about our commitment to international law and the protection of human rights. This move is not taken lightly and would indicate that the EU is serious about holding all parties accountable, including our partners. The potential suspension of certain political engagements or trade agreements would underscore the importance we place on compliance with humanitarian law.
**Interviewer:** Some might argue that taking such measures could further escalate tensions. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Borrell:** I understand that concern, but we must prioritize the principles of human rights and international law. Unfortunately, turning a blind eye to violations only perpetuates a cycle of impunity and conflict. Our goal is not to escalate tensions but rather to foster a climate that supports peace and adherence to international standards the EU strongly advocates for.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Borrell. It’s crucial to continue monitoring the situation closely, and we appreciate your efforts in seeking accountability and justice in these challenging times.
**Borrell:** Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue. It is through such conversations that we can seek to promote peace and stability in the region.