Israel disregards the foundations of EU collaboration in Gaza, continuing acts perceived as unfavorable towards the EU's cooperative objectives.
Let's take a look at what's been happening in the complex dance between the EU and Israel regarding their cooperation.
What's the Score with Israel and the EU?
Israel's actions in Gaza are being scrutinized by the EU, raising questions about its compliance with human rights commitments. This isn't just a hunch—it's the result of a thorough examination led by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas.
But why the probe? Back in May, the EU Foreign Affairs Council took the extraordinary step of mandating an evaluation of Israel's adherence to the fundamental principles of their Association Agreement. This includes the cornerstone principle that the partnership should be rooted in respect for human rights.
The Elephant in the Room: Human Rights Violations
Israel's actions in Gaza appear to be a clear violation of this fundamental principle. In recent months, Israel has severely limited humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, home to approximately two million Palestinians. Israel justifies this move by claiming that Hamas benefits from the aid shipments.
The Buzz About the Audit Report
The findings of Kalla Kallas' report were expected to be discussed by EU foreign ministers on Monday, and would likely find its way onto the agenda at the June summit of heads of state and government. In fact, the results had been suggested for several weeks, with EU Commission President von der Leyen already expressing concern about Israel's use of force against civilians and the destruction of civilian infrastructure.
The Background
This isn't the first time the partnership agreement with Israel has been under the microscope in the EU. It was primary Spain and Ireland who sparked discussions about the agreement last year, citing human rights concerns.
Source: ntv.de, Ansgar Haase, dpa
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Deep Dive into the EU Review
- The EU is presently scrutinizing Israel’s compliance with the human rights and cooperation principles embodied in the Association Agreement, spurred by Israel’s military actions in Gaza. This review, backed by 17 of the 27 EU member states, could potentially lead to the suspension of all or parts of the agreement, maintaining a trade relationship worth over €42.6 billion yearly[1][3][5].
- The formal review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement focuses on compliance with Article 2 of the agreement, which demands that the relationship is predicated on respect for human rights and democratic principles. The review was initiated due to allegations of human rights violations by Israel during its military campaign in Gaza since October 2023[1][3][5].
- Reportedly, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, has prepared a report on this matter. The report entails various assessments by international bodies such as the International Court of Justice and UN human rights entities, suggesting indications that Israel may be breaching its human rights obligations under the Association Agreement[1][3].
Political Complexity and Controversy
- The potential suspension of agreements or imposition of sanctions is fraught with political difficulties. Despite the review, as of June 2025, no formal sanctions or suspension recommendations have been proposed[3].
- Some European Parliament members and governments oppose the review, accusing it of a double standard or a potential damage to diplomatic ties. This contrasting view adds to the sensitive political landscape surrounding any potential sanctions or suspension[1].
In the end, the situation is more complicated than a black-and-white assessment, with political sensitivity and differing views within the EU complicating the matter further. The future of the EU-Israel relationship remains uncertain, and the outcome of the review process will undoubtedly shape the course of the partnership. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
[1] https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/eu-powers-consider-suspending-sending-military-aid-israel-over-gaza-2025-04-10/[2] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/11/eu-to-discuss-suspending-aid-to-israel-over-gaza[3] https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-716537[4] https://www.euractiv.com/section/justice-home-affairs/news/eu-starts-review-of-israeli-cooperation-agreement-sources/[5] https://www.haaretz.com/world-news/eu-israel-cooperation-agreement-on-hold-amidst-human-rights-concerns-1.9933905
- The current scrutiny of Israel's compliance with human rights and cooperation principles within the European Union's Association Agreement, initiated due to concerns about Israel's military actions in Gaza, has political implications that extend beyond the agreement's specified terms.
- The potential suspension or imposition of sanctions under the agreement is a complex issue, with some European Parliament members and governments opposing the review due to perceived double standards or potential damage to diplomatic ties, adding to the political sensitivity and differing views within the EU regarding the future of the EU-Israel partnership.
