Council of Europe Urges Halt to Arms Transfers to Israel Amid Gaza Crisis

Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, has urged member states to immediately halt arms transfers to Israel that might be used to commit human rights violations amid the catastrophic Gaza conflict. Despite some positive steps, such as Germany’s recent suspension of certain military exports to Israel, O’Flaherty emphasized that these measures are insufficient and called for swift, expanded action to prevent further violations of international humanitarian law. He highlighted the need for intensified efforts to ensure unhindered humanitarian aid delivery and the immediate release of hostages. The Council of Europe, representing 46 states, stresses applying existing legal standards to arms transfers to avoid complicity in human rights abuses. This call comes as Israel plans to expand military operations in Gaza, which has prompted condemnation from several world leaders. O’Flaherty pledged to continue engaging with member states to foster a human rights-compliant response to the ongoing crisis.