The position of Josep Borrell
The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Policy, Josep Borrell, has raised with the United States the need to impose an arms embargo on Israel. According to Borrell, Israel’s military operations in southern Gaza are considered ‘excessive’ and ‘disproportionate’. Furthermore, he has expressed concern about the humanitarian impact of these actions on the Palestinian population. Borrell has urged the US to take concrete steps to reduce the number of casualties in the Gaza Strip, beyond mere words of concern.
The situation in Rafah
The head of European diplomacy has highlighted the situation in Rafah, where recent military operations by Israel have been carried out. These operations have endangered supplies and aggravated the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. Borrell has warned about the possible humanitarian disaster in the area and recalled that Rafah is the arrival point for many displaced Palestinians. Since the beginning of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, people in Gaza have been trapped and subjected to constant bombardment with no possibility of escape.
The role of UNRWA
In relation to UNRWA, Borrell has defended the role of this agency and has highlighted its work in caring for Palestinian refugees. In the face of Israel’s accusations about the involvement of UNRWA workers in Hamas attacks, Borrell has stressed the importance of waiting for the results of the internal investigation. Meanwhile, he has emphasized the need for people to receive medical care and adequate food.
International reactions
The Israeli military operation in Rafah has generated concern internationally, including the United States. President Joe Biden has expressed disapproval and urged Israel not to carry out military operations without a credible plan to ensure the safety of refugees in the area. Several countries, such as Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, have frozen sending money to UNRWA in response to Israel’s accusations. However, Spain and Norway have announced that they will continue to provide financial support to the agency.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Josep Borrell has proposed an arms embargo on Israel as a measure to reduce violence and the number of victims in the Gaza Strip. He has expressed concern about the humanitarian situation and urged concrete action beyond words of concern. Furthermore, he has highlighted the importance of UNRWA in caring for Palestinian refugees and has defended its role. The international community has shown diverse reactions to the military operation in Rafah, with calls for the containment and freezing of funds to UNRWA. Spain and Norway have announced their continued support for the agency.
