The European Union has ordered a review of its cooperation accord with Israel due to allegations of human rights abuses. EU diplomat Kaja Kallas stated that most member states support reviewing trade cooperation agreements with Israel, citing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza where hundreds of Palestinians have been killed in bombings and ground assaults.
This move is part of a broader trend, as Sweden threatens sanctions on Israeli ministers and Britain suspends free-trade negotiations. The human rights abuses are starkly illustrated by the numbers: at least 3,509 people have been killed since March 18, including 1,218 civilians who died in an October 7 attack.
The two-month Israeli aid blockade has exacerbated the crisis, leading to mounting anger and pressure from international leaders. The EU's actions demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights globally, sending a strong message that it will not tolerate human rights abuses. This stance is likely to have far-reaching implications for international relations.