Ireland (Washington Insider Magazine) —The prime ministers of Ireland and Spain have urged the European Commission to urgently assess Israel’s compliance with its human rights obligations in Gaza as fears grow over the humanitarian impact of a potential Israeli military operation in Rafah. The densely populated southern city has become the focal point of international concern as thousands of displaced Palestinians flee further north in anticipation of intensified violence.
In a joint letter published on February 14, 2024, the leaders of Ireland and Spain described the situation as “a grave and imminent threat that the international community must urgently confront.” They also reiterated the importance of an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid access and called for the release of the hostages taken during Hamas’s October 7 raid.
EU Divided on Response to Gaza Crisis
While Spain and Ireland have taken a firm stance, other EU countries are gradually rallying behind a stronger collective position. A tweet by Belgium’s Prime Minister Alexander De Croo described a potential assault on Rafah as an “unmitigated humanitarian catastrophe.” Germany’s foreign minister, Annalena Baerbock, has also voiced concern, warning of the jeopardy such an operation poses to the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The European Commission acknowledged receipt of the Irish and Spanish letter and stated it would investigate the matter. Discussions within the EU Council of Ministers, set for March, could further solidify a coordinated European response, potentially reviewing the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which ties trade and cooperation to respect for human rights and democratic principles.
Humanitarian Crisis in Rafah
Rafah, now home to over 1.4 million displaced Palestinians, has seen relentless shelling in recent days. Many residents, who were directed to the city by Israeli forces as part of a “safe zone” directive, face severe shortages of water, food, and medicine. The overcrowded conditions have also led to the spread of disease. Fearing a full-scale ground invasion, thousands are fleeing toward central Gaza, adding to the desperation and uncertainty gripping the enclave.
Calls for Accountability
The intervention by Ireland and Spain follows South Africa’s referral of Israel to the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide. Ireland’s Prime Minister, Leo Varadkar, has also been in discussions with EU leaders about recognizing Palestinian statehood as part of a broader response to the ongoing crisis.
As the EU deliberates its stance, the situation in Gaza remains critical, with mounting casualties and deteriorating living conditions underscoring the urgency of international action.
