EU Suggests Israel May Violate Human Rights Deal in Gaza

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    BRUSSELS — The European Union expressed concerns over Israel’s recent actions in Gaza, indicating potential breaches of human rights obligations under an agreement regulating its relations with the EU. However, the bloc faced contention on how to proceed from this point.

    During the meeting in Brussels, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas provided a report on Israel’s compliance to the foreign ministers representing the 27 member states. This presentation prompted discussions, including the suggestion from at least one nation to suspend the association agreement with Israel.

    According to a document from the European External Action Service, viewed by the press, trends indicate that Israel may have violated its human rights responsibilities as outlined in Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. The document highlighted that organizations such as the International Court of Justice and United Nations agencies accused Israel of potentially breaching international humanitarian law in Gaza. Allegations pointed toward actions like blocking essential food and supplies, targeting journalists, and utilizing broad-impact weapons in densely populated areas.

    Though such an agreement suspension would necessitate unanimous backing, countries supporting Israel, such as Austria, Germany, and Hungary, might hinder collective consensus. Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul voiced opposition to suspending the agreement during discussions in Brussels.

    Alternative measures like ceasing visa-free travel to Europe for Israelis, imposing sanctions on settlers in the West Bank, or discontinuing academic collaborations might advance with a qualified majority—15 of the 27 EU members representing at least 65% of the EU populace agreeing. Kallas pointed out that trade originating from violent settler-affected areas in the occupied West Bank should not benefit from the advantageous trade connections between Israel and the EU.

    Countries including the Netherlands, Ireland, and Spain have expressed their support for Palestinians in Gaza during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp emphasized that while attention is focused on Iran, the situation in Gaza remains critical.

    French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that the EU review clearly outlined violations of Article 2 by Israel, which mandates adherence to human rights. He called for actionable consequences at the forthcoming foreign affairs ministers’ meeting.

    The current military campaign by Israel in Gaza follows an assault by Hamas on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of roughly 1,200 people, primarily civilians, and the capture of 251 hostages. Since the end of a ceasefire in March, the Gaza Health Ministry reports that around 56,000 Palestinians have been killed, with limited aid arriving.

    The situation has resonated across Europe, fueling protests in cities such as London, Berlin, Brussels, Madrid, and Amsterdam, leading to rising indignation. Notably, Spain has already acted by halting arms deals with Israel and advocating for an arms embargo.

    Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno expressed urgency during the EU meeting, insisting that verbal statements were insufficient. He highlighted the dire circumstances in Gaza, where the loss of life among civilians demands immediate action. Spain additionally advocates for an embargo on arms sales by EU countries to Israel and expanded sanctions on individuals hindering the two-state solution process. “Europe must demonstrate bravery,” Albares stressed to reporters.

    Ireland also supports suspending the Association Agreement, according to Simon Harris, the Irish minister for foreign affairs.