EU Member States Back Review of Israel Trade Deal Over Gaza Crisis

Malta has expressed strong support for renewed EU and UN efforts to stabilize Libya, emphasizing the need for a genuinely inclusive, Libyan-owned process while calling for continued international engagement to uphold Libya’s sovereignty and enforce the arms embargo. Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg highlighted concerns over escalating conflict in Tripoli and stressed the importance of withdrawing foreign forces to prevent renewed violence. Regarding the Middle East, Malta condemned forced displacement and the use of starvation as a weapon of war, urging the immediate lifting of humanitarian aid blockades and respect for international humanitarian law. Malta also backed a Dutch initiative to review the EU-Israel Association Agreement, citing serious concerns about human rights violations and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with calls for an immediate ceasefire and unconditional release of all hostages. The initiative follows a broader EU consensus to reassess cooperation with Israel, with EU foreign ministers agreeing to review the trade deal amid the catastrophic situation in Gaza, aiming to pressure Israel to allow unhindered humanitarian aid. Malta’s stance aligns with other EU members calling for increased scrutiny and potential sanctions if conditions worsen, underscoring the urgency of addressing the humanitarian impact on civilians and supporting a two-state solution.