Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar will meet top European officials in Brussels on Monday. This meeting resumes Israel-EU talks as the bloc reviews its role in rebuilding Gaza after last month’s ceasefire.

EU-Israel Association Council to Discuss Key Issues

Saar will co-chair the EU-Israel Association Council with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Notably, this is the first meeting of its kind since 2022. Leaders will discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Israel-Palestinian relations, and regional changes.

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“Monday’s Association Council is an important opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen the partnership between Israel and the EU,” said Haim Regev, Israel’s ambassador to the EU.

EU Divided Over Israel’s Military Actions

The Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, and Israel’s response have split the EU. On one hand, all members condemned the Hamas attacks. On the other hand, some defended Israel’s military action, while others criticized its impact on civilians.

In February 2024, Spain and Ireland formally asked the European Commission to review whether Israel was complying with its human rights obligations under the 2000 EU-Israel Association Agreement. Since this agreement governs political and economic cooperation between Israel and the EU, the request added pressure ahead of Monday’s meeting.

EU Balances Support for Israel with Gaza Concerns

After intense negotiations, EU members reached a compromise before Monday’s meeting. The 27-nation bloc will reaffirm its commitment to Israel’s security. At the same time, it will stress the importance of ensuring that displaced Palestinians return safely and with dignity. According to a draft document seen by Reuters, the EU will highlight both concerns.

Trump’s Controversial Gaza Proposal

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump angered Arab nations and Western allies earlier this month. He suggested that the U.S. should “take over” Gaza, permanently remove Palestinians, and turn the area into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” Consequently, his remarks sparked strong opposition from many international leaders.

War’s Heavy Toll on Civilians

The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked Israeli communities. As a result, 1,200 people died, and 251 were taken hostage, according to Israel.

Israel responded with a large-scale military offensive. Consequently, Palestinian health authorities report at least 48,000 deaths. Furthermore, hundreds of thousands now live in makeshift shelters, relying entirely on aid.