EU Seeks Close Cooperation With Israel After Election
Translated & summarized from Jüdische Allgemeine by baba
The European Union expressed its hope for close cooperation with Israel's next government after its parliamentary elections, aiming to advance shared interests and promote regional peace. The EU congratulated Israelis on high voter turnout reflecting their democracy and pledged continued open dialogue. However, Israel's political future remains uncertain as no clear majority has emerged, and the EU itself has been divided on how to approach policies like West Bank settlements.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- The EU seeks close cooperation with Israel's future government after its parliamentary elections.
- An EU spokesperson emphasized advancing collaboration and addressing mutual interests and disagreements.
- The EU congratulated Israelis on high voter turnout, reflecting a vibrant democracy.
- Israel's political future remains uncertain as no clear majority has emerged from the elections.
- The EU has been divided on its policy towards the previous Israeli government, particularly regarding settlements.
The European Union is looking forward to close cooperation with the future Israeli government following the recent parliamentary elections, according to a statement from Brussels. An EU spokesperson for High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized the bloc's desire to advance collaboration, address all issues of mutual interest, and resolve existing disagreements. The EU also aims to jointly promote regional stability, security, and a just and lasting peace.
The spokesperson congratulated the Israeli people on holding elections characterized by high voter turnout, which reflected Israel's vibrant democracy. The EU stated its commitment to an open and honest dialogue with the incoming government, based on long-standing relations, shared democratic principles, and common values. The goal is to further expand people-to-people contacts.
While the EU congratulated Israel on its elections, the political landscape in Israel remains uncertain. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party was leading in vote counts, but a clear majority for his right-religious bloc was not yet apparent, leaving Arab parties as a potential kingmaker.
Previously, the EU had been divided on its policy towards Netanyahu's government. Several member states advocated for a tougher stance on settlement policy and military actions in the Gaza Strip. However, Germany and other nations have resisted sanctions, such as EU-wide import restrictions or bans on goods from West Bank settlements.
