Former EU high representative Josep Borrell on Thursday condemned the European Commission and European Council for inaction regarding crimes committed by U.S. mercenaries in Gaza. “In just one month, U.S. mercenaries have killed 550 Palestinians who were trying to get food at the distribution points designated by the so-called Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. This is horrifying, yet the @EU_Commission and @EUCouncil still haven’t taken any action against these criminal acts,” Borrell stated in a post on X, reports 24brussels.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GFH), a food aid organization supported by the U.S. and Israel, has faced backlash due to reports of shootings at civilians seeking assistance, leading 170 NGOs to recently call for its closure. As reported by the Gaza government media office, at least 549 individuals have lost their lives and 4,000 more have been injured while attempting to access aid since GFH commenced operations on May 27.
Israeli forces and U.S. contractors—often mercenaries—are responsible for security at GFH’s four aid distribution locations. Reports indicate that American contractors have utilized live ammunition and stun grenades as Palestinians rush for food, supported by video evidence obtained by the Associated Press. GFH began its operations in Gaza following a relaxation of a three-month blockade imposed by Israel. Since the commencement of its operations, there have been frequent reports of Israeli and American forces confronting and killing civilians approaching the aid center.
In late June, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres criticized the GFH operation, deeming it “inherently unsafe” and claiming it resulted in fatalities. The Swiss government mandated the dissolution of the GFH branch in Geneva on Wednesday. Israel has denied allegations of intentionally targeting individuals in need, asserting that the food distribution initiative is effective and GFH claims to have provided over 52 million meals within five weeks.
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s current foreign policy chief, adopted a more pragmatic approach to the region upon succeeding Borrell. However, in light of Israel’s obstruction of humanitarian aid for Gaza’s civilians, Kallas has adopted a firmer stance, stating “enough is enough” on June 18.
Recently, the EU determined that Israel has committed human rights violations and has initiated plans to reevaluate its association agreement with the nation.
