BRUSSELS (ANP) – If the association agreement is put on hold, Israel would forfeit its trade benefits, as the EU is its largest trading partner.
“This signals that we are taking action and establishing boundaries for Israel,” asserts Strik, speaking from Jerusalem to ANP. Accompanied by five other Members of the European Parliament, she is visiting the Palestinian territories and Israel to witness firsthand the situation in the West Bank, Gaza, and Israel. “We’re also here to explore what the European Union can do to help.”
On the first day of their official mission, the Members of Parliament engaged in discussions with representatives from human rights organizations, the Palestinian Authority, and the EU’s police mission in the Palestinian territories. They were informed that the EU has lost significant credibility. Despite providing financial support to the Palestinians, the EU refrains from criticizing Israel, Strik was told.
She has become increasingly aware of the severe injustices faced by Palestinians in the West Bank. “Palestinians perceive themselves as second-class citizens,” she commented.
Since the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in Gaza, there has been a notable rise in Israeli violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, according to insights from the EU police mission for the Palestinian Territories.
Strik emphasizes that the EU must act promptly. Altering the association agreement requires the approval of all member states, a process she fears may not be achievable. She is currently exploring what steps the EU needs to take to align with international law.
In mid-July 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel’s settlement policy is a violation of international law. However, Strik notes that the EU has yet to revise its policy toward Israel: “The EU applies international values inconsistently.”
(February 6, 2025)
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