Josep Borrell, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, has called for the inclusion of Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich on the EU’s human rights violations list, according to reports from Western media outlets. Borrell’s proposal aims to expand the EU’s sanctions list to include these controversial figures, but he acknowledged that there is currently no consensus among EU member states on this matter.
Borrell expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in the West Bank, emphasizing that the violence in the region is escalating daily, fueled by what he described as inflammatory and racist rhetoric from certain Israeli officials. He highlighted the worsening conditions as evidence of a lack of genuine efforts to end the ongoing conflict and pointed to internal strife within Israeli society.
The EU foreign policy chief also noted that recommendations regarding these proposed sanctions will be submitted to the European Council's committees for further review and consideration.
Borrell specifically mentioned his close monitoring of statements from extremist Israeli ministers advocating for the construction of a synagogue on the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. He underscored the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where over 85% of the population is reportedly being forced to flee their homes amid catastrophic conditions, with aid workers being targeted and killed.
In light of the escalating crisis, Borrell announced that the European Union is planning to convene a high-level meeting to address the situation in the Middle East. Reflecting on the rapidly changing dynamics, he remarked, "Six months ago, we were discussing the day after Gaza, and today we are talking about a partial ceasefire that is not being fully implemented."
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