EU Foreign Ministers Urge Action on Israel's Death Penalty Law

In a joint letter, Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee, alongside her Spanish counterpart José Manuel Albares and Slovene counterpart Tanja Fajon, has called on the European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, to address Israel's recent legislative actions at an upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg. The letter emphasizes that Israel's approval of a death penalty law represents a significant violation of fundamental human rights and undermines its commitment to democratic principles, as outlined in Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

The Knesset's law, which mandates death by hanging as the default sentence for certain deadly attacks, has faced legal challenges. The ministers argue that this legislation is part of a broader pattern of systematic persecution and discrimination against the Palestinian population. They assert that the EU must uphold its moral and political responsibilities by actively defending human rights and addressing these violations.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

The letter references a review conducted by the EU regarding Israel's conduct during the Gaza War in 2025, which indicated that Israel was likely in breach of its human rights obligations under the EU-Israel Association Agreement. The ministers express concern over Israel's actions, including military operations in Lebanon and ongoing violations of ceasefire agreements, which they claim exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They highlight the insufficient entry of humanitarian aid into the region and the incitement of violence by extremist members of the Israeli government.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

The ministers argue that the EU's inaction in response to Israel's conduct, particularly following its failure to implement measures against Israel in July and September 2025, has led to perceptions of double standards. They note that while sanctions have been imposed on Russia, similar actions have not been taken against Israel despite its controversial policies and military actions.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

The joint letter underscores the urgency of the situation, stating that the EU's silence and inactivity in the face of these breaches of human rights undermine its credibility. The ministers call for the EU to take a principled stance that aligns with its foundational values, emphasizing that respect for human rights should guide its relationships with all partners.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• "The latest example is the approval of the death penalty by the Israeli Parliament, which is not only a grave violation of fundamental human rights but also a step backwards in Israel’s commitment to democratic principles." — Helen McEntee, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ireland

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• "In such a grave situation, we call on the European Union to uphold its moral and political responsibility." — Joint Letter from Foreign Ministers of Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

• "The EU’s failure in both July and September 2025 to enact even a modest package of measures against Israel’s conduct in Gaza is perceived internationally as the practice of double standards." — Joint Letter from Foreign Ministers of Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

This joint initiative reflects a growing concern among EU member states regarding Israel's policies and their implications for human rights and regional stability.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)