The European Union is pushing for unity in dealing with the conflict between Israel and Hamas, focusing on help for civilians in Palestine but reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself lawfully.
The bloc is working to operate an air corridor between Gaza and Egypt to supply the area with cargo from UNICEF to humanitarian organizations located in the area. The supply should include shelter items, medicines and hygiene kits.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told at a video summit with the 27 EU leaders that “there is no contradiction in standing with Israel in solidarity and acting for the humanitarian needs for the Palestinians.” At the same meeting, European Council President Charles Michel called for “consistency and unity” over the issue.
Both spoke just hours after a deadly airstrike at a hospital killed hundreds of people in Gaza City. When they spoke, Israel had not denied yet its involvement. Michel said that an attack on civilian infrastructure will breach international law.
Von der Leyen has been criticized for not affirming explicitly enough that Israel must respect international law in its counter attack against Hamas. She was also criticized for an impromptu visit to Israel on Oct 13. The snap visit was not agreed upon beforehand, and it was without an agreed political message by member states.
The EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell pushed back against this criticism, saying that “foreign and security policy remains a responsibility of the member states,” meaning that the Commission can freely travel to another country.
The EU is sending ambivalent messages on the conflict, a sign of the different takes from member states. At first the EU blocked development aid to Palestine, only to backtrack and revealed an urgent review to ensure that those funds are properly used. Finally, last Saturday the Commission decided to triple humanitarian aid to Gaza.
