On Wednesday, February 14th, Spain and Ireland called for an “urgent review” of the European Union’s agreement with Israel, citing serious concerns over the ongoing war in Gaza and the resulting humanitarian crisis. Prime Ministers Pedro Sánchez of Spain and Leo Varadkar of Ireland jointly addressed a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, urging the Commission to assess Israel’s compliance with its obligations under the EU-Israel Association Agreement, particularly in light of potential human rights violations and breaches of international law.
The leaders highlighted the recent United Nations General Assembly resolution and the International Court of Justice ruling, which suggested some of Israel’s actions during the conflict “may fall” within the scope of the Genocide Convention. This move by Spain and Ireland, along with Belgium, underscores their position as some of the most vocal critics of Benjamin Netanyahu’s government within the EU. These countries have also expressed intentions to recognize the state of Palestine, signaling a push for a more balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Sánchez and Varadkar emphasized that the “horrendous terrorist attacks committed by Hamas and other armed groups do not, and cannot, justify any breaches of international humanitarian law” in Israel’s military response, which has had devastating effects on Gaza’s civilian population. They expressed particular concern over reports that Israel might soon initiate a ground operation in Rafah, a move they believe would lead to an “even greater humanitarian catastrophe.”
The war in Gaza has already resulted in over 28,000 Palestinian casualties, including 12,000 children and 8,000 women, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. The two prime ministers have called on the European Commission to consider “appropriate measures” if it concludes that Israel has breached its obligations under the EU-Israel Association Agreement. This agreement, in effect since 2000, stipulates that relations between the EU and Israel must be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles.
The call for an urgent review of the EU-Israel agreement reflects growing international concern over the impact of the Gaza conflict on civilian lives and the broader implications for EU-Israel relations. As the European Commission contemplates its next steps, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that upholds human rights and contributes to a lasting peace in the region.
