Dublin: Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris has urged the European Union to transition from verbal condemnations to tangible actions against Israel in response to the ongoing Gaza conflict. Speaking before a meeting of EU defense and foreign ministers, Harris emphasized that while words of condemnation hold significance, they have proven insufficient in addressing the crisis.
According to Anadolu Agency, Harris highlighted Ireland's longstanding advocacy for revisiting the association agreement between the EU and Israel, asserting that a recent review clearly indicated Israel's breach of human rights obligations. Despite some EU member states requesting additional time, Harris noted that Israel has not taken steps to rectify the situation.
"The world is now looking to Europe to see, from a credibility point of view, are we now willing to act? There are 10 different areas that Europe has identified where sanctions or measures could be taken against Israel," Harris stated. He further stressed the necessity for Europe to align its condemnatory statements with concrete actions to facilitate a ceasefire, increase humanitarian aid, and secure the release of hostages.
Harris also underscored the importance of Europe upholding its values and utilizing provisions in the EU-Israel Association Agreement to pressure Israel into adhering to human rights obligations. The conflict has resulted in the death of at least 63,000 Palestinians in Gaza since October 2023, with the enclave suffering severe devastation and facing the threat of famine.
The situation has drawn international legal attention, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the enclave.
In addition to addressing the Gaza conflict, Harris condemned Russia's recent strikes on Kyiv, which damaged the EU Delegation building, calling such actions a violation of the Vienna Convention. Harris urged the European Union to consider further sanctions against Moscow.
On the topic of Lebanon, Harris expressed support for the renewal of the UN peacekeeping mission and suggested that the EU explore a new training mission to bolster the Lebanese Armed Forces.