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 does Josep Borrell envision balancing diplomatic relations with Israel while upholding human rights standards?**
**Interview with Josep Borrell on Human Rights Concerns Regarding Israel and Gaza**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Josep. Your letter to the EU foreign ministers has stirred significant discussion regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. Can you elaborate on the main concerns you raised about possible violations of international humanitarian law?
**Josep Borrell:** Thank you for having me. The essence of my message is that we must uphold our commitment to human rights, even in the most challenging circumstances. My letter highlighted serious concerns regarding potential violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza. This includes issues such as civilian casualties and the destruction of critical infrastructure during the ongoing conflict.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that “so far, Israel has not adequately addressed these concerns.” What kind of response are you expecting from Israeli authorities?
**Josep Borrell:** We expect a thorough and transparent response that addresses these allegations. It’s crucial for Israel to provide clarity on its military operations and ensure the protection of civilian lives, in compliance with international law. Dialogue is essential, and both sides must engage in discussions to resolve these matters.
**Interviewer:** Your proposal suggests that the EU consider suspending its political dialog with Israel under the human rights clause. Can you explain why this step is necessary?
**Josep Borrell:** The human rights clause in our agreements with Israel is not merely a formality; it reflects our fundamental values. If we find credible evidence substantiating human rights violations, we must act decisively. Suspending the political dialog would signal our commitment to accountability and encourage compliance with international norms.
**Interviewer:** This proposal comes at a sensitive time for EU-Israel relations. How do you view the balance between maintaining diplomatic ties and advocating for human rights?
**Josep Borrell:** It’s indeed a delicate balance. We must advocate for human rights while also recognizing the importance of our diplomatic and trade relations. However, if these relations are to be sustainable, they must be founded on respect for fundamental rights. This is a critical moment for the EU to reaffirm its principles globally.
**Interviewer:** What do you hope the outcome will be following the upcoming meeting of the EU foreign ministers?
**Josep Borrell:** I hope for a unified response that reinforces our commitment to human rights. The upcoming discussions will be pivotal in determining how we navigate our relationship with Israel moving forward while ensuring that our values remain at the forefront of our actions. It’s essential that we stand firm on these principles, as history will judge us on how we respond to such challenges.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Josep, for your insights. It’s clear that the EU is at a crossroads, and your leadership will be crucial in the coming days.
**Josep Borrell:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important issues.
