Israel will fly out of the Horizon Europe? The EC proposed the suspension of the Israelites

In connection with the blockade of humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip, the European Commission proposed on Monday the suspension of Israel's participation in the EU research program Horizon Europa. The final decision will be made by Member States by a qualified majority.

This means that 15 out of 27 Member States will have to vote for suspension, which together constitute 65 percent. EU population.

In the announcement, the EC assessed that although Israel announced “humanitarian breaks” in armed operations in some areas in the Gaza Strip and fulfilled some of its obligations on humanitarian aid and access to it, the situation remains serious.

“This decision will affect the participation of Israeli entities in the EIC Accelerator program, addressed to start -ups and small companies with groundbreaking innovations and new technologies that may have double applications, such as cyber security, drones and artificial intelligence,” emphasized the EC. “The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action. It does not affect the participation of Israeli universities and researchers in joint projects and research under the Horyzont Europa program,” she said.

The suspension of Israel's participation is one of the announced steps after the European Commission has reviewed the association agreement with this country and has concluded that Israel may violate the provisions of Art. 2. Agreements regarding compliance with human rights. Other potential activities from the EU, such as imposing sanctions on some Israeli officials, would require unanimity, which achievement is unlikely.

Israel joined the Horizon Europa research program in 2021. This enabled Israeli researchers and organizations to participate on equal conditions with EU Member States. Israel also contributed financially to the program.

The Europa Horizon is the largest EU research program. As part of the seven -year community budget by 2027, EUR 93.5 billion will be allocated to the program from the EU cash register.

From Brussels Magdalena Cedro (PAP)

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