EU Considers Suspending Israel Trade Pact Over Gaza War Violations

Watan-On Thursday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that European foreign ministers will hold formal discussions later this month on whether to review the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which governs trade relations, due to Israel’s conduct in the war on Gaza.

Speaking to reporters after hosting an informal EU foreign ministers meeting in Poland, Kallas said:

“The frustration among EU member states over our inability to stop this situation is enormous,” adding that most European countries agree that the situation in Gaza is “unsustainable and rapidly deteriorating.”

The EU-Israel partnership agreement, which has been in effect since 2000, stipulates that the relationship must be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles.

In a notable move, the Dutch government declared its intention to suspend the agreement pending a full EU review of Israel’s adherence to its obligations. Kallas confirmed that ministers will formally address the issue on May 20.

Meanwhile, the foreign ministers of Norway and Iceland condemned Israel’s plans to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza, calling it illegal under international law and warning it would escalate violence and undermine peace efforts.

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp added:“It is crucial to send a strong signal about our deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian blockade and Israel’s decision to intensify its military operations.”

Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon echoed these concerns, stating:“The world has clearly failed the test of humanity,” emphasizing the need for a more serious EU response to clear violations of international humanitarian law.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stressed:“Now more than ever, Europe must raise its voice against what is happening in Gaza,” insisting that the EU “will never accept the displacement of Gaza’s population.”

On Wednesday, several European nations condemned Israel’s expanded military plans in Gaza, aimed—according to Israeli claims—at eliminating Hamas. The Israeli security cabinet recently approved a plan that could involve full control of the Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million people, and the regulation of humanitarian aid flows, which Israel has largely blocked since March.

French President Emmanuel Macron declared the situation in Gaza to be “the most dangerous ever”, calling Israel’s forced displacement plans “an unacceptable response.” He noted:

“Never before have civilians been denied medical care, food, medicine, and water for such an extended period.” He renewed his call for Israel to reopen border crossings and allow humanitarian access.

Macron added:“While Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorist groups, it cannot do so without respecting international norms.”

The UK Foreign Office also announced its strong opposition to Israel’s expansion of military aggression in Gaza. Middle East Minister Leo Docherty told Parliament that the UK “strongly opposes” any expansion, stating:“Any attempt to annex parts of Gaza would be unacceptable.”

He emphasized:“Palestinian land must not be annexed or subjected to demographic engineering,” and called for an immediate ceasefire, urgent humanitarian aid, and a pathway to a political solution.

Israeli media reported Monday that the Israeli cabinet approved a joint Israeli-American aid mechanism to resume humanitarian deliveries to Gaza via an international fund and private companies. According to the plan, aid will be distributed in “designated humanitarian zones” established by Israel in southern Gaza.

However, relief agencies criticized the plan, warning against Israel’s control over aid distribution through private contractors, especially after more than two months of complete aid denial by the Israeli military. Israel has provided few details about the plan, which could include full occupation of the Gaza Strip as part of its broader military strategy.