Tánaiste welcomes announcement of EU review of Association Agreement with Israel

I welcome today’s announcement that the EU will conduct a review of the Association Agreement with Israel.

This is an important decision, reflecting the grave concerns held by Member States regarding the ongoing military operations by Israel and the blockade of humanitarian aid entering Gaza.

Ireland and Spain first called for this step in February 2024.

Since then, the situation has become immeasurably worse, with catastrophic consequences for the civilian population and a real risk of famine.

Today, a clear majority of Member States agreed on the need to send a strong signal to Israel to reverse course, to halt its military operations and to lift the blockade on lifesaving aid.

In the lead up to today’s meeting in Brussels, I have been working hard to create a majority for this significant move.

We need an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of all remaining hostages, and a surge in vital humanitarian aid into and throughout Gaza. I call on all parties to support this.

Ends

Press Office

20 May 2025