European countries exhibit disagreement on Israel's handling of the Gaza situation during discussions at the Copenhagen talks

In a recent meeting in Copenhagen, European Union foreign ministers grappled with the complexities of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Israeli offensive, launched in response to an attack by the Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, 2023, has brought to the surface deeply rooted differences among the EU’s 27 countries on the Middle East.

The European Union foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, acknowledged the division within the union, stating that they are divided about measures against Israel over its war on Gaza. Traditional allies of Israel, such as Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, have rejected steps like suspending the free trade pact or research funds.

However, some EU countries, including Ireland, Spain, Sweden, and the Netherlands, have called for the suspension of an EU free trade pact with Israel. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul questions the usefulness of suspending civilian cooperation, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government has suspended delivery of weapons that could be used in Gaza.

The European Commission has proposed a measure to send an initial signal to Israel, which does not require unanimity to pass, but rather the support of 15 EU countries representing at least 65% of the population of the participating member states. This lenient proposal is less severe than other options, but Kallas is not very optimistic that ministers can agree on a proposal to curb Israeli access to an EU research-funding programme.

The implementation of the EU Commission’s measure against Israel has been a topic of concern for many EU governments. They have criticized Israel's conduct of the war, particularly over deaths of civilians and restrictions on humanitarian aid. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris expressed his concern about children starving in Gaza.

Despite the divisions, it is worth noting that the EU and Israel had 42.6 billion euros ($49.9 billion) in goods trade last year. No EU country has yet suspended an EU free trade pact with Israel, and Kallas expressed concern about the lack of a unified voice on this topic, implying that it could weaken the EU’s influence on the global scene.

The declaration of famine in Gaza by a global hunger monitor has been disputed by Israel. Kallas expressed her concern about the lack of a unified voice, suggesting that it could weaken the EU’s influence on the global stage. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also questioned the usefulness of suspending civilian cooperation.

In conclusion, the EU is currently divided over its response to Israel's actions in Gaza. While some countries have called for stronger measures, others have rejected them. The EU Commission's proposal, although less severe, requires the support of a significant number of countries to pass. The lack of a unified voice could potentially weaken the EU's influence on the global stage.

European countries exhibit disagreement on Israel's handling of the Gaza situation during discussions at the Copenhagen talks