EU’s Borrell proposes suspension of political dialogue with Israel over Gaza war concerns

The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, has proposed suspending the bloc’s political dialogue with Israel, citing potential human rights violations in Gaza amid the ongoing conflict.

The proposal, detailed in a letter obtained by Reuters and seen by four diplomats, expresses “serious concerns” over Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law.

Borrell’s letter, addressed to EU foreign ministers, notes that these concerns have yet to be “adequately addressed” by Israeli authorities, prompting his recommendation to invoke the EU’s human rights clause as grounds to halt political dialogue.

“Based on the above-mentioned considerations, I propose that the European Union use the human rights clause to suspend political dialogue with Israel,” Borrell stated.

However, Reuters reports that the move would require unanimous agreement from all 27 EU member states – a prospect diplomats say is unlikely.