Protesters waving Palestinian flags outside EU buildings in Brussels hoped for a significant shift in policy as a report pointed to possible human rights violations by Israel. Despite being the largest trading partner with Israel, the EU leaders appeared unlikely to suspend their long-standing trade agreement, highlighting internal divisions regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
In 20 months of Israeli military operations, the Hamas-run health ministry estimates over 55,000 Gazans have been killed, with 1.9 million displaced. The humanitarian situation worsened as Israel imposed a blockade on aid, only partially easing after international pressure. The UN reports that hundreds of Palestinians died while trying to access food aid.
Agnes Bertrand-Sanz from Oxfam emphasized the urgency for EU action, saying, "Every red line has been crossed in Gaza." In response, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas pointed out that the focus would be on changing the situation on the ground, hinting at further discussions next month but falling short of commitment.
Critics argue that the EU's indecision undermines its credibility as a humanitarian leader and hinders its power to address other global issues, such as Russia's actions in Ukraine. The challenges stem from the necessity for unanimous decisions among the EU's 27 member states, with some countries firmly opposed to any trade suspension with Israel.
Countries like Ireland and Spain push for tougher measures against Israel, while nations like Germany and Austria express reservations, citing concerns over worsening diplomatic relations. As the EU grapples with differing opinions and pressures, the silence from influential leaders like U.S. President Biden complicates efforts for a cohesive stance on Gaza.
The situation illustrates the complexities of EU foreign policy, where calls for humanitarian action clash against a backdrop of political realities and historical contexts that shape member states' responses.