Israel firmly rejects the European Union's decision to review its trade and cooperation pact amid increased scrutiny of its actions in Gaza. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced an examination of potential human rights violations under the EU-Israel Association Agreement, supported by 17 foreign ministers. Israeli officials argue that Hamas is responsible for the ongoing conflict and criticize the EU's stance as a misunderstanding of the complexities involved, warning that such criticism could inadvertently strengthen Hamas.
"We completely reject the direction taken in the statement, which reflects a total misunderstanding of the complex reality Israel is facing," Marmorstein wrote on X.
"Ignoring these realities and criticising Israel only hardens Hamas' position and encourages Hamas to stick to its guns," he emphasised.
The EU's decision came after 17 of the bloc's 27 foreign ministers backed the review, which was tabled earlier this month by the Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp.
International pressure is mounting on Israel following a nearly three-month blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and a widened offensive it has launched in the Strip.
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