The European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, on September 20, discussed EU-Israel relations, regional stability, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. This conversation reflects the commitment of both parties to security and stability in the Middle East.
Emphasis on Joint Cooperation
Dubravka Šuica stated in a post on social media platform X after the conversation that they discussed "EU-Israel relations and our common interests in security and stability across the Middle East." She also emphasized the need for a reformed and effective Palestinian entity that could contribute to greater stability in the region.
Need for Gaza Reconstruction
Regarding Gaza, Šuica stressed the "urgent need to advance initial reconstruction" and added that "our continued cooperation is key to implementing initial reconstruction projects on the ground." These remarks come as the EU and its like-minded partners launched an initiative in July to finance the reconstruction of Gaza, focusing on restoring essential social and economic services, improving critical infrastructure, and strengthening governance.
The EU has also criticized Israel's actions in the Gaza war while affirming Israel's right to self-defense. Additionally, the EU has condemned the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which are widely regarded as illegal under international law and seen as an obstacle to Israeli-Palestinian peace and the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Divisions within the EU
However, the 27 EU member states are divided on this issue. Some countries strongly criticize Israel, while others maintain close relations with the country. Gideon Sa'ar announced in June that he had cut off "all contacts" with Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief. He attributed this action to statements suggesting that he compared Israel to the apartheid era in South Africa.
