Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2024
1. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has made any effort to secure the suspension of the EU-Israel Association agreement considering the clear breach by Israel of the human rights clause within that agreement. [3227/24]
View answerI want to begin by underlining my grave concern at the dire situation in Gaza. I am urgently calling for an immediate and sustainable humanitarian ceasefire; the unconditional release of all hostages; and full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access for the benefit of those in desperate need. The protection of civilians must be paramount and there must be accountability for civilian deaths.
I consistently advocate for the EU to more effectively use its leverage with Israel to positively influence the situation on the ground. I expressly raised the EU-Israel Association Agreement at the Foreign Affairs Council last December. However, a unanimous Council Decision would be required to suspend the Association Agreement and the reality is that this will not achieve consensus.
I understand and support calls for a more ambitious and consistent EU position. However, as the Deputy knows, there are differing positions among EU Member States. Notwithstanding this political reality, advocacy and leadership from Ireland does pay dividends. At the United Nations last December a clear majority of EU Member States voted in favour of an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Only two voted against.
I strongly believe that the most credible and effective approach towards achieving a lasting settlement is for us to continue to work to influence the EU’s collective position in a realistic manner. The central pillars of the EU position remain important and valid, all the more so in view of the recent regrettable statements by Prime Minister Netanyahu and other members of this Israeli Government.
The EU’s unwavering commitment to the perspective of a Palestinian state on the basis of the two-State solution was made comprehensively clear to the Israeli Foreign Minister on Monday.
The EU’s clear position on the illegality of Israel’s settlement policy provides a robust basis for the consideration of EU sanctions against extreme Israeli settlers. Discussions are already ongoing at a working level on proposals, based on strong evidence, that enjoy very broad support. This is a clear area where EU leverage can be used effectively.
I will continue to advocate for policies and initiatives at EU level that are both ambitious and achievable.
