EU proposes halting Israel access to start-up funds over Gaza war

EU Considers Funding Freeze for Israeli Tech Start-Ups Amidst Gaza Crisis

Brussels Weighs Action as Humanitarian Situation in Gaza Worsens

The European Commission is proposing a suspension of Israel's access to EU funding for tech start-ups, escalating pressure on the country amid growing concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. This move follows calls from several EU nations for concrete actions against Israel amidst fears of mass starvation in the war-ravaged territory.

"While Israel has announced a daily humanitarian pause in Gaza fighting, the situation remains severe," stated the European Commission. "The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action."

The suggestion to partially suspend Israel's participation in the Horizon research program will be debated by all 27 EU member states on Tuesday. Implementation hinges on approval from a majority of these countries. This proposed action comes as the bloc grapples with internal divisions regarding the Gaza conflict, balancing staunch supporters of Israel with those more sympathetic to the Palestinians.

This potential move follows recent efforts by EU officials to address the situation. Earlier this month, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas proposed various measures to penalize Israel after it was found in violation of a human rights cooperation agreement with the EU.

Brussels has also announced an agreement with Israel to improve aid access to Gaza. While acknowledging that Israel has taken steps towards fulfilling its promises regarding increased aid, the EU maintains that much more needs to be done.

Partial suspension of Horizon access represents one of the more limited actions Brussels could take. However, diplomats and officials suggest this step serves as a signal to Israel that the bloc is prepared for further action unless conditions in Gaza improve.

The proposed measure would halt funding for Israeli start-ups operating in fields such as drone technology, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. In 2024, Israel ranked among the top three countries vying for Horizon funding alongside Germany and France.

As Gaza's population of over two million faces famine and malnutrition, Israel has yielded to international pressure by announcing a daily "tactical pause" in fighting in certain areas over the weekend. On Monday, truckloads of food reached hungry Gazans following Israel’s promise to open secure aid routes. However, humanitarian agencies warn that significantly larger quantities are required to avert starvation.