The Brussels International Center (BIC) is appalled by the escalating violence in Rafah, especially following one of the deadliest strikes in the ongoing eight-month conflict. This attack occurred just two days after the International Court of Justice in The Hague ordered Israel to cease its operations in Rafah immediately. The blatant disregard for international law and humanitarian principles is deeply concerning.
Marc Otte, President of the BIC, remarked, "The continued military aggression in Rafah, despite clear directives from the ICJ, is a grave violation of international law. Such actions not only endanger countless lives but also undermine the very fabric of global justice and peacekeeping efforts."
Otte emphasized, "The international community must not remain silent. We must hold perpetrators accountable for these actions and ensure that humanitarian law is upheld."
On Monday, EU foreign ministers held a significant discussion regarding the imposition of sanctions on Israel if it fails to comply with international humanitarian law. Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin highlighted a clear consensus on the need to uphold international humanitarian legal standards. This discussion follows the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) ruling that Israel must halt its offensive in Rafah and open the Rafah border crossing for humanitarian aid.
Despite the ICJ ruling, Israel continued its operations, leading to a deadly airstrike on a refugee camp in Rafah, which killed at least 45 Palestinians, including women, children, and the elderly. This action drew broad condemnation from EU leaders.
This was the first substantial discussion on sanctions at an EU meeting, indicating a serious consideration of potential punitive measures against Israel. However, he also pointed out the diversity of perspectives among EU members, suggesting that achieving consensus on sanctions might be challenging.
A few days after the airstrikes on the refugee camp in Rafah, Gazan officials reported that another strike on a tent encampment in Al-Mawasi, a designated humanitarian safe zone in southern Gaza, killed at least 21 people and injured dozens. The Israeli military denied involvement, despite verified videos showing casualties in the area where civilians were sheltering.
More recently, Israel claimed control over the border strip between Egypt and Gaza. Despite earlier warnings from Egypt that an Israeli occupation of the Philadelphi Corridor would severely threaten bilateral relations, Egypt's muted response to Israel's recent tactical control of the area underscores the complex dynamics of their strategic partnership. This restrained reaction likely stems from the deeply ingrained security cooperation between the two nations, which both view as essential for their national security. The close coordination on security matters, regular military meetings, and mutual interests in managing the border and controlling militant activities highlight the pragmatic approach both countries take, prioritizing long-term stability over immediate diplomatic disputes.
Call to Action
The Brussels International Center (BIC) urgently calls for:
Immediate Ceasefire: All military operations in Rafah must halt immediately to prevent further loss of life and humanitarian crises. This ceasefire is crucial to allow for the safe passage of aid and to create a foundation for peace negotiations.
Imposing Sanctions: The EU should implement stringent sanctions on the Israeli government to enforce compliance with international humanitarian laws. These sanctions should target military operations, economic transactions, and political engagements until Israel adheres to the ICJ's directives.
Renewed Focus on a Two-State Solution: Diplomatic efforts must intensify to achieve a viable two-state solution, ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region. This involves active mediation, supporting dialogue between Israeli and Palestinian leaders, and addressing the root causes of the conflict. The EU must leverage its political and economic influence to facilitate negotiations and provide a framework for sustainable peace.