European Union should rethink its ties with Israel over Gaza war

It is important for the European Union to rethink its deal with israel. This is because, with the passage of time, the death toll in Gaza and West banks increases. Ireland and top diplomats of the European Union have suggested that the EU should take strict action against those who spread racial hatred. Also the European Union should impose sanctions on certain Israeli officials, Also the Isreal;s military action got severe criticism from Ireland’s Foreign Minister, Micheál Martin, in a recent meeting in Brussels. 

He claimed that Israel’s actions are not good. They are not only targeting the Hamas fighter but also civilians. Martin also shed light on the fact that this war is harming every person living in Palestine, not just Hamas. The situation is dire right now. According to data, the number of people who were killed are about 40,000. Also 90% of the population has been displaced. Also most of the cities of this region have been destroyed. Hamas has also lost many fighters and much of its militant infrastructure. So, the European Union should take urgent action to control the situation and bring peace across both regions, Hamas and Israel. 

Back to October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel. After this incident, the violence across the West Bank increases day by day. Israel targets the West Bank by launching the major operation. As a result, 10 Hamas fighters lost their lives. 

According to the International Court of Justice, Israel’s control of Gaza and West Bank does not follow the international rules and also this occupation is not legal. This announcement of ICJ put pressure on the European Union to take instant action. Also this decision of the International Court of Justice seems to be a big victory for Justice and International laws. 

Martin has stated that things can’t continue as they are because international law has been broken. The EU and Israel have a trade agreement, and Ireland and Spain are pushing for the EU to check if Israel has violated this agreement.

However, the European Union assisted Palestianns in many ways, but did not have much power over Israel. This is because 27 EU countries strongly disagree on what to do. Many countries favor Israel while others favor Palestine. Austria, Germany, and Hungary strongly support Israel. Spain and Ireland  are more supportive of the Palestinians.

Even so, the EU is known for its peace efforts, as it was created to promote peace in Europe. Recently, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, with Ireland’s support, suggested that the EU should think about imposing sanctions on some members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing Cabinet. This idea is because of their comments about the situation in Gaza.

According to Borrell,

“Some Israeli ministers have been launching hateful messages, unacceptable hateful messages, against the Palestinians and proposing things that go clearly against international law and are an (incitement) to commit more crimes.” 

The opposition from Joseph Borrell to Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich was totally fair. Smotrich suggested that it might be okay to starve Gaza’s 2 million people until hostages from the October 7 attack are released. This idea is deeply concerning. Also it raises many ethical issues. Borrell is correct in saying that the EU should not shy away from enforcing international humanitarian laws.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, however, did not take a strong position. She said that any decision on sanctions should be carefully considered and based on solid evidence. She also mentioned that all EU countries must agree before any sanctions are imposed. I think the EU needs to act clearly and quickly to ensure humanitarian standards are met without letting disagreements slow things down.

Borrel gave remarks after the meeting. According to him, everyone is not happy with the new move. However he has started to take necessary steps required to impose  sanctions if the EU decides to do so later. He also highlighted that ministers will make the final decision but the process is started and now underway. 

Borrell also talked about a big meeting on the war at the United Nation General Assembly next month. Arab countries and the United State will join, and Borrell said Israel can come too.