The reconstruction of Gaza cannot be separated from accountability for the destruction that made it necessary. During today’s topical plenary debate, the Socialists and Democrats stressed that the European Union has both a humanitarian and a political responsibility: to lead international efforts to rebuild Gaza while ensuring that respect for international law remains at the heart of the EU’s response.
The S&D Group renewed its call for the creation of a dedicated European financial facility for the reconstruction of Gaza. Reconstruction must be Palestinian-led, backed by the United Nations and international financial institutions, and financed through transparent and independently audited mechanisms. Lasting peace cannot be built through improvised structures or political shortcuts such as the so-called Board of Peace, but only through legitimate international frameworks that put the Palestinian people at the centre.
The S&Ds also warned that reconstruction cannot become a substitute for accountability. As violence in the occupied West Bank continues to escalate and violations of international law persist, the EU must stop looking the other way. Ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council on 13 July, the S&D Group again calls for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Europe must send a clear message that respect for international law is not optional and that no partner is above the rules.
Yannis Maniatis, S&D vice-president for foreign affairs, security and defence, said:
“Europe must help rebuild Gaza – not only with funding, but with a long-term political commitment to peace, dignity and justice. We need a dedicated financial facility that delivers reconstruction through the United Nations and international financial institutions, under full transparency and with Palestinian ownership at its heart. Humanitarian support must strengthen the Palestinian people and lay the foundations for a viable future, not bypass internationally recognised institutions or replace a genuine political solution.
“Reconstruction without accountability is neither credible nor sustainable. While Gaza lies in ruins, settler violence in the West Bank continues to reach new levels and international law continues to be ignored. The European Union cannot continue with business as usual. The time has come to suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Europe must demonstrate that its commitment to international law is backed by action, because without accountability there can be neither justice nor lasting peace.”
