KJ2025-12-15: EU Diplomatic Spat Over ‘Apartheid’ Remarks

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced the severance of diplomatic ties with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas following allegations that she likened Israel’s policies in Gaza and the occupied West Bank to South Africa’s apartheid era. The controversy stems from reports by Euractiv detailing Kallas’ private comments during May meetings with Mexican officials.

Saar directly condemned the remarks as a “blood libel,” stating he could no longer maintain contact until Kallas addressed the allegations. Kallas responded publicly on X, reiterating the EU’s commitment to dialogue and a two-state solution without directly refuting the reports.

What occurred?

The incident isolated Kallas, who faced criticism for her perceived lack of response. Saar emphasized that her silence implied endorsement of the comparison. This occurred amid Israel’s ongoing legal challenges at international courts regarding alleged genocide and war crimes in Gaza.

Analyst Nele Anders of ECFR noted the EU’s fragmented foreign policy structure, where member states retain ultimate control. The European External Action Service (EEAS), led by Kallas, has become increasingly marginalized in this power dynamic.

“EU-Israel relations remain fractured but not collapsing,” Anders explained, highlighting how national capitals continue to shape the relationship despite shared institutional frameworks.

EU-Israel Relations Context

The EU’s approach to Israel balances human rights commitments with strategic partnerships. Despite internal pressures, the EU-Israel Association Agreement remains in effect, making the bloc Israel’s largest trading partner since its 2000 implementation.

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin criticized the EU’s inaction against Israeli officials, describing Saar’s actions as “unacceptable.” Ireland has led efforts to impose sanctions on far-right ministers, though consensus among member states has prevented broader measures.

EU Measures Against Israel

Since October 2023, the EU has imposed limited sanctions on settler organizations but has refrained from suspending the Association Agreement. The 1995 pact remains active despite international court rulings urging member states to halt support for Israel’s occupation policies.

Major EU powers like Germany maintain strong ties with Israel. Chancellor Merz rejected Kallas’ remarks as “anti-Semitic,” while Berlin continues to privately engage with Israeli authorities without public criticism.

Shifting EU Stances

Conversely, France and Italy have moved toward recognizing Palestinian statehood and imposing sanctions on Israel. These actions contrast with Germany’s consistently pro-Israel position, creating internal EU contradictions.

Given Germany’s influential bloc, significant policy shifts remain unlikely. Any future EU-Israel tensions would likely depend on escalating Israeli actions or member state consensus changes.

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