The European Union was urged by Spain and Ireland to suspend or review its long-standing association agreement with Israel. Slovenia also supported this proposal, which was presented ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg, reflecting growing unease within the bloc. It raised serious concerns over alleged human rights violations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee argued that countries benefiting from EU agreements should comply with international law. She said the EU must uphold its core values. She pointed to escalating violence in the West Bank, expansion of settlements, and controversial Israeli policies, which highlighted a proposed death penalty law targeting Palestinians.

Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares described it as “systematic violations” in Gaza and breaches of ceasefire commitments. Belgium also strongly criticised Israel’s actions, calling them “totally unacceptable,” and demanded tougher EU measures.

However, to reach any decision, there has to be a significant consensus within the EU, which remains divided on the issue.