José Borrell Accuses EU Leaders of Complicity in Gaza Violence
The EU’s former foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has accused his previous boss Ursula von der Leyen and other EU leaders of complicity in the “genocide of Palestinians” by Israel in Gaza.
Borrell stated, “Those who do not act to stop this genocide and these violations of international law, even though they have the power to do so, are complicit in them.” His remarks were made in an op-ed published in a left-wing British newspaper on Friday.
He warned that “the leaders of the EU and its member states will probably be called to account in the future for their complicity in the crimes against humanity committed by [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu’s government.”
The former Spanish socialist, who served in his EU role from 2019 to 2024, urged European leaders to cancel the EU-Israel Association Agreement due to Israel’s breach of its humanitarian obligations in Gaza, asserting it as a necessary action given the ongoing situation.
This association agreement provides Israel with benefits in trade, visas, and research collaboration.
According to Borrell, “This is the only language that can bring Israeli leaders to stop committing crimes against humanity.” He criticized the EU for its failure to pressure Netanyahu’s government, equating its response to the situation in Gaza unfavorably to its strong stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In addition, Borrell advocated for measures including blocking weapons deliveries to Israel, imposing bans on imports from West Bank settlements, sanctioning far-right ministers, and denying Netanyahu access to Europe’s airspace.
He presided over EU foreign ministers’ meetings for nine months following the Hamas attack on Israel that occurred on October 7, 2023. Although he refrained from using the term ‘genocide’ during his tenure, he frequently called for respect for international humanitarian law regarding Gaza. As the humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened, Borrell’s criticism of European institutions has intensified.
For further details, reports 24brussels.
