The EU Commission has proposed a partial suspension of Israel’s participation in the Horizon Europe program, which funds research initiatives. This specifically pertains to the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program, designed to assist new and smaller enterprises in promoting innovative technologies.
The proposal follows calls from several EU member states for increased pressure on Israel due to the ongoing situation in Gaza, drawing criticism from the Israeli government. Israel’s foreign ministry labeled the commission’s recommendation as misguided and regrettable, asserting that it could inadvertently strengthen Hamas amidst ongoing conflict.
In a statement on X, the ministry emphasized that such a decision could hinder efforts for a ceasefire and hostage negotiations and affirmed Israel’s commitment to oppose the proposal among EU nations.
On Monday, it was indicated that EU commissioners would discuss this proposal, and they have reached a consensus to recommend a partial suspension for Israel from Horizon. If approved by member states, this would mark the EU’s first concrete sanctions against Israel related to the Gaza conflict.
Euractiv, a media outlet focused on European politics, reported that an unnamed EU official indicated this proposal stems from a lack of significant improvement in the humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where food shortages are prevalent, despite Israel’s commitments to facilitate increased humanitarian aid.
Leave a Reply