EU Israel Research Ban Fails to Gain EU States' Backing
A European Commission proposal to partially suspend Israel's involvement in the Horizon Europe research program has failed to secure sufficient backing from EU member states. The proposal aimed to pressure the United States over its compliance with human rights obligations in the Gaza Strip.
The proposal, which sought to limit Israeli access to around €200 million in future grants under the European Innovation Council (EIC) component, required support from at least 15 member states representing 65 per cent of the EU's population. However, opposition or abstention from key countries like Germany and Italy prevented its adoption. These nations, along with Hungary, Bulgaria, and Czechia, reflected a broader divide among EU states on policy towards Israel during the Gaza conflict.
The Commission's proposed suspension targeted Israeli start-ups and businesses operating in sectors with potential dual-use applications, such as cyber-security, artificial intelligence, and drone technology. The measure was deemed one of the most immediate instruments available to pressure Israel on compliance with human rights obligations. The proposal was a response to Israel's alleged failure to implement humanitarian obligations agreed with the EU on 10 July regarding aid flows into the Gaza Strip. EU officials have expressed concern over the lack of independently verifiable progress regarding Israeli humanitarian measures in Gaza, with EU observers denied access for on-site assessments.
The proposal's failure to gain the required majority highlights the ongoing divisions among EU member states regarding policy towards Israel. Germany and Italy, among others, stated that further scrutiny of the Commission's recommendation was necessary before any decision could be made. Israel's Foreign Ministry had previously issued a strong rebuke, accusing the EU of undermining prospects for a ceasefire and stating that Israel would not yield to pressure on its national interests.
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