EU Considers suspending Key Research Ties with Israel Over Gaza Aid Concerns
European Union member states are set to discuss a proposal that could lead to the partial suspension of Israel’s access to a meaningful EU research program, the Horizon Europe initiative. The move is prompted by ongoing concerns over the volume and accessibility of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza.
While EU officials acknowledge an increase in aid deliveries, they report being denied access to Gaza to independently verify the distribution of this aid. They also highlight the need for more entry points and distribution centers within the territory. The proposed suspension specifically targets the European Innovation Council (EIC) within Horizon Europe, a program focused on disruptive technologies.
Israel has been a highly triumphant participant in the Horizon program, securing approximately €200 million (about £173 million) out of the €900 million allocated as 2021, comprising €135 million in grants and €65 million in equity investments. The EU has identified 46 Israeli companies currently involved in the EIC program.
The european Commission stated that despite Israel’s announcement of a daily humanitarian pause in Gaza and some commitments regarding aid access, the situation in Gaza remains severe. This potential suspension stems from a review of the EU’s trade association agreement with Israel, initiated following a call for review by the Netherlands, supported by 17 other member states in May.Senior EU officials described the discussions on humanitarian aid among member state ambassadors as “heated,” indicating a sense of “special urgency” surrounding the proposal.The proposal, detailed in a seven-page document, will be presented to ambassadors meeting in Brussels to discuss the EU-US trade deal.
For the suspension to be approved, it would require a qualified majority vote, meaning support from approximately 15 member states representing at least 65% of the EU’s population. This threshold would likely necessitate Germany’s backing for the measure.
the article also draws a parallel to the UK’s previous three-year exclusion from the Horizon program following Brexit, noting that its rejoining in 2024 was a different situation than the proposed suspension for Israel.
