The Netherlands has urged a review of the EU-Israel trade agreement in light of Israel’s actions during the Gaza conflict, citing concerns over the block on humanitarian aid.

In Brussels, European Union foreign ministers are expected to discuss the Dutch demand for a reassessment of the EU’s trade ties with Israel, following its conduct in Gaza.

Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra, a former ambassador to Israel, informed EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell that he believes Israel is violating human rights obligations linked to the trade agreement. Hoekstra stated that the Netherlands would not support the renewal of the EU-Israel pact unless humanitarian law is properly considered.

France has also voiced support for the call to review the cooperation agreement.

The EU is Israel’s largest trade partner, with the EU-Israel Association Agreement—governing trade relations between the two parties—having been in place since 2000. The agreement requires unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states to be renewed.

Agencies.