BRUSSELS – The proposal to address Israel’s non-compliance with human rights agreements in the EU-Israel association agreement requires approval from EU member states.
EU foreign chief Kaja Kallas has reached an agreement with Israel to allow increased humanitarian aid into Gaza due to treaty violations. The Commission reports that while Israel has implemented some measures and there is a “humanitarian pause in the fighting in Gaza,” the “situation remains serious,” as noted in her statement.
The Commission is considering suspending the portion of the Horizon research program that pertains to start-ups and small businesses. However, this suspension will “not affect the participation of Israeli universities and researchers in collaborative projects and research activities,” according to the Commission. Significant protests have occurred at Dutch and other European universities against partnerships with Israeli institutions.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof has expressed the Netherlands’ support for halting Israeli participation in the research program. Implementing this measure requires a qualified majority, which means it needs backing from 55 percent of the 27 member states representing at least 65 percent of the EU population. The timing of a vote on this matter remains uncertain.
During the last meeting of EU foreign ministers two weeks ago, member states were still split on whether to impose sanctions on Israel. Kallas mentioned that various measures were being considered, from halting the entire Horizon program with Israel to suspending trade benefits. EU sources indicate that the Commission is choosing a more moderate measure to signal to Israel its readiness to take action without escalating the situation further.
(July 28, 2025)
Leave a Reply