Condemning the mistreatment of “detainees” following the interception of the ‘Global Sumud’ flotilla for Gaza in international waters (see EUROPE 13872/6), the European Council could invite the Council to “take work forward on restrictive measures against extremist ministers inciting and promoting such human rights abuses”, according to a draft of the conclusions of the 18 and 19 June summit, dated 1 June and obtained by Agence Europe.
Several Member States have already imposed national sanctions on the Minister for National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir (involved in the mistreatment of the flotilla activists) and also on the Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich.
While former EU High Representative Josep Borrell had called for measures against these ministers, no consensus has so far been found (see EUROPE 13471/2). The subject should also be discussed at the Foreign Affairs Council on 15 June.
In its draft conclusions, the European Council notably urges the Israeli government to put an end to the expansion of settlements, including in the E1 area, to comply with its international obligations and to protect the Palestinian population in the occupied territories.
“The European Council underlines the legal and reputational consequences for businesses participating in settlement construction, including the risk of serious breaches of international law”, the draft text states. Member States are divided as to the measures to be taken on settlement products.
Condemning the “continued and growing” settler violence against Palestinians, the leaders are expected to call for those responsible to be held accountable. They are also expected to condemn Israel’s adoption of the death penalty law - described as “discriminatory” - and to call for its immediate repeal.
In addition, the European Council is expected to promise that the EU will continue to work on the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, and on the reconstruction and redevelopment of Gaza, in line with international law, and to provide support to the Palestinian Authority.
The leaders are expected to express their grave concerns over the “persistent and devastating” humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling on Israel to allow immediate and unimpeded access for aid. The EU could also firmly reject Israel’s announcement of its intention to seize 70% of Gaza’s territory.
Lebanon. The European Council is expected to urge all actors to respect the ceasefire in Lebanon and to engage constructively in peace negotiations. It is expected to call for a definitive cessation of hostilities, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and full respect for international law, including humanitarian law.
The EU’s support for the Lebanese people, for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the authorities’ state-building efforts, including through support for the Lebanese armed forces, will likely be reaffirmed (see EUROPE 13877/25). The leaders are also expected to reaffirm the EU’s willingness to contribute to maintaining the United Nations presence in the country after UNIFIL’s withdrawal in 2027.
See the draft conclusions: https://aeur.eu/f/m53 (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)