EU High Representative Kaya Kallas and EU foreign ministers should unequivocally condemn Israel’s horrific crimes and other serious violations of international law when they meet with Israel’s foreign minister today at the EU-Israel Association Council, Human Rights Watch said.

“Kallas and the EU foreign ministers must signal that the EU no longer hesitates to recognize and begin to address Israeli war crimes, crimes against humanity – including apartheid – and acts of genocide,” the organization added.

“They should also make clear to Sa’ar that there are consequences for past and current violations, including sanctions on officials involved in ongoing violations and suspension of arms sales. They should also announce a review of Israel’s compliance with its human rights obligations under the EU-Israel Association Agreement, following the request for suspension by Spain and Ireland in February 2024, due to Israel’s serious violations.”

“Business cannot continue as usual in dealing with a government responsible for crimes against humanity, including apartheid, and acts of genocide,” said Claudio Francavilla, associate EU director at Human Rights Watch.

Its current prime minister is wanted by the International Criminal Court for serious crimes. The sole purpose of this Association Council meeting should be to expose those crimes and announce long-overdue measures in response.”

In a letter to EU leaders and member states, 125 civil society organizations, including Human Rights Watch, urged the EU to focus its discussions with Sa’ar on the potential suspension of the treaty. Article 2 of the treaty lists human rights and democratic principles as “essential elements” of the treaty, violations of which could lead to suspension. The EU never responded to Spain and Ireland’s requests.

Human Rights Watch has documented serious violations by Israeli authorities and forces during the hostilities in Gaza and the region, including war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity, including extermination, as well as acts of genocide. Israeli authorities have also ignored three binding orders from the International Court of Justice to take steps to prevent genocide in a case brought by South Africa over Israel’s alleged violation of the UN Genocide Convention.