Brussels - Saba:
Human Rights Watch called on the High Representative of the European Union, Kaya Kallas, and the foreign ministers of the EU countries to condemn "Israel's" horrific crimes and other serious violations of international law during the meeting with the so-called Minister of Foreign Affairs of the enemy today within the "European Union-Israel Partnership Council".
The organization said today, Monday, according to the Palestinian News Agency, "Kallas and the EU foreign ministers should signal that the EU no longer hesitates to recognize and begin to address Israeli war crimes and crimes against humanity - including apartheid - and acts of genocide.
They should also make clear to Sa'ar that there are consequences for past and current violations, including sanctions on officials involved in ongoing violations, and the suspension of arms sales. They should also announce a review of Israel's compliance with its human rights obligations under the EU-Israel Association Agreement, following the request for suspension submitted by Spain and Ireland in February 2024, due to the serious violations committed by Israel."
Claudio Francavilla, associate director for European Union affairs at Human Rights Watch, said: "Business cannot continue as usual in dealing with a government responsible for crimes against humanity, including apartheid, and acts of genocide. Its current prime minister is wanted by the International Criminal Court for committing horrific crimes. The sole purpose of this Association Council meeting should be to expose these crimes and announce long-overdue measures in response.”
In a letter to EU leaders and member states, 125 civil society organizations, including Human Rights Watch, urged the EU to focus its discussions with Sa’ar on the possible suspension of the treaty. Article 2 of the treaty lists human rights and democratic principles as “essential elements” of the treaty, violations of which could lead to the treaty’s suspension. The EU never responded to Spain’s and Ireland’s requests.
Human Rights Watch has documented serious violations by Israeli authorities and forces during the hostilities in Gaza and the region, including war crimes, ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity, including genocide, and acts of genocide. Israeli authorities have also ignored three binding orders from the International Court of Justice to take steps to prevent genocide in a case brought by South Africa over Israel’s alleged violation of the UN Genocide Convention.
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