EU and Israel: Energy Deal Violating Palestinian Rights and International Law
Does the EU really want to be an accomplice in breaking international law? As Europe scrambles for new energy sources, it signed a deal with Israel that’s a ticking bomb – but not the kind that warms you up, the kind that lights a fire!
A Deal That Sparks Doubt
The European Union signed a memorandum of understanding with Israel and Egypt aiming to secure stable natural gas supplies to Europe. Sounds smart during an energy crisis, right? But hold on – the pipeline used for this deal runs through Palestinian waters, and Palestinians weren’t even asked!
The NGO Global Witness claims this pipeline was built without Palestinian consent, blatantly violating Palestinian sovereignty and international law. London-based lawyers clearly state the EU risks becoming complicit in violating Palestinian rights by maintaining this deal.
Who Pays the Price? Palestinians!
While the EU rushes to find alternative energy sources due to the war in Ukraine, Palestinians in Gaza suffer catastrophic consequences from Israeli attacks. Over 40 Palestinians, including 10 from the same family, were killed in recent clashes. Nearly 2.3 million people live in ruins under constant threat.
Meanwhile, the pipeline exports gas to Europe, but Palestinians gain no financial or regulatory benefits. It’s like someone using your house to make money while you get nothing – and your home is falling apart!
EU’s Double Standards – Human Rights Defender or Hypocrite?
The European Commission signed this deal despite clear warnings about human rights violations. Activists and legal experts accuse the EU of double standards – boasting as a human rights defender while funding and supporting Israeli policies considered genocidal against Palestinians.
Irish MEP Barry Andrews called for urgent review and suspension of the memorandum, saying the EU must not ignore its international obligations. But apparently, profit and energy security trump justice and human lives.
What Do Lawyers and International Courts Say?
The International Court of Justice ruled in 2004 that Israel must end its occupation of Palestinian territories. Though not legally binding, it urges states not to recognize Israeli occupation as lawful. Building a pipeline in occupied Palestinian waters likely breaches international law, and the EU’s deal supports this.
Conclusion: Energy or Ethics?
As Europe seeks gas to avoid freezing this winter, it pays a hidden price – the price of human rights and international law. The deal with Israel may bring gas, but it also brings shame.
If this seems like just another example of the powerful playing with ordinary lives, you’re not alone. Maybe it’s time to ask – is energy worth more than justice? Or will we stay silent while pipelines fill and human rights empty?
Share your thoughts, because this isn’t just about gas – it’s about who we are and what we allow to happen under our noses. Who knows, maybe your voice will spark change!
Source: Danas.rs, Global Witness, The Guardian
