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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**Interview with Joseph Borrell, EU Foreign Affairs Chief**
**Interviewer:** Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Joseph Borrell, the EU Foreign Affairs Chief. Joseph, thank you for joining us. Your recent letter to EU foreign ministers raised serious concerns about the situation in Gaza and possible human rights violations by Israel. Can you elaborate on these concerns?
**Borrell:** Thank you for having me. Yes, my letter reflects significant apprehensions regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. We are witnessing a humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating possible violations of international humanitarian law. These claims need to be addressed directly, and so far, Israel has not provided adequate explanations or responses to these serious allegations.
**Interviewer:** In your letter, you mentioned the potential use of the EU’s human rights clause. Can you explain what that entails, and why you think it might be necessary in this situation?
**Borrell:** Certainly. The human rights clause is part of our broader agreements with Israel, which includes various elements such as trade relations. If there are credible concerns about human rights violations, the EU has the right to reevaluate our agreements. This clause serves as a protective measure, reinforcing our commitment to human rights and the rule of law. I believe it is imperative to utilize this mechanism if we wish to maintain our integrity and uphold our values in the face of significant human rights concerns.
**Interviewer:** How do you propose to drive this dialog forward with Israel, especially considering the strong political and trade ties that exist?
**Borrell:** Engaging in political dialog is essential. We must urge Israel to engage constructively with our concerns about human rights. It’s vital that our relations are built upon mutual respect for fundamental human rights. I will advocate for an open discussion with my counterparts in Israel, emphasizing that addressing these issues is not only about compliance with international law but also about ensuring long-term peace and security in the region.
**Interviewer:** Some critics argue that addressing human rights issues could complicate the EU-Israel relationship further. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Borrell:** I understand the apprehensions. However, I believe that a robust EU-Israel relationship must include a commitment to human rights. Ignoring these issues could lead to greater instability and ultimately harm our shared objectives. We are in a position to encourage positive change, and I believe that promoting human rights is not a hindrance but a pathway to a sustainable and peaceful resolution.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Joseph, for sharing your insights. The discussions ahead are certainly important for both the EU and Israel.
**Borrell:** Thank you for having me. It is crucial we remain steadfast in our approach to human rights, as it is foundational to our collective future.
