The Netherlands has called on the EU to investigate whether Israel is still adhering to the terms of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, following Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp has informed EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas that Israel’s actions may violate Article 2 of the agreement, which mandates respect for human rights and democratic principles.
Israel has barred humanitarian aid from entering Gaza for weeks. The country announced a new system for aid distribution, but Veldkamp doubts its efficacy.
He stated: "although many details remain undisclosed, this system does not seem to align with humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence," in his communication to Kallas.
Speaking to Dutch outlet AD, Veldkamp stressed the deteriorating situation in Gaza, criticising Israel’s blockade of emergency aid as contrary to international humanitarian law.
"Meanwhile, we observe that the Israeli cabinet has decided to escalate the war, with talk of reoccupying the Gaza Strip. All things considered, this is cause for drawing a line in the sand," he remarked.
Veldkamp suggested that a "broader discussion and reflection on our relationship with Israel" is necessary, and stated he would oppose extending the EU-Israel Action Plan pending the investigation.
The Action Plan elaborates on EU-Israel cooperation, and unanimous approval is required for its extension.
