The European Union has decided to re -examine its association agreement with Israel, due to recent events in Gaza. The head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas, announced that a majority of the Member States wishes to review article 2 of this agreement, which conditions cooperation for human rights.
Seventeen countries, including France and the Netherlands, support this approach. The European Commission will assess if Israel respects its commitments. In the event of a breach, a suspension of the agreement, in force since 2000, could be envisaged.
This initiative comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorates, with very little help authorized to enter. Twenty-two countries, including France, Germany, Canada and Japan, are demanding a complete resumption of humanitarian aid, under the aegis of the UN.
Israel, for its part, says that it will not give in to external pressures and continues its offensive. The United Kingdom has suspended its commercial negotiations with Israel and summoned its ambassador.
