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Cyprus has drawn criticism for breaking ranks with most of the EU by opposing a Dutch-led push to review the EU’s political and economic ties with Israel over its ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza, according to Kathimerini's Brussels correspondent George Kakouris.
Despite expressing support for increased aid to Palestinians and its own efforts through the stalled “Amalthea” maritime corridor, Cyprus argued that revisiting the EU-Israel Association Agreement would not be effective at this stage. It emphasized instead the importance of keeping lines of communication open with Tel Aviv.
The Dutch proposal, backed by countries including France, Austria, and 17 EU member states, calls on Brussels to assess whether Israel’s actions violate Article 2 of the agreement, which hinges on human rights and democratic values. That review is now moving forward, despite opposition from Cyprus and nine other countries.
The review comes as international patience with Israel’s restrictions on Gaza has worn thin. The Dutch foreign minister criticized Israel’s aid delivery practices, calling them incompatible with humanitarian principles, and noted that the current blockade worsens an already dire crisis. Though he reaffirmed Dutch solidarity with Israel, he warned that international law must still be upheld.
While no binding vote was taken this week, the decision to initiate a formal review sends a strong diplomatic message, particularly because it came from traditionally pro-Israel governments. Critics say the move is necessary as Israel continues to defy calls for unimpeded humanitarian access.
Cyprus, meanwhile, finds itself increasingly isolated. Although it did not sign Monday’s joint call by major aid donors to lift the blockade, officials say this may be due to its smaller donor status. For now, its humanitarian initiative “Amalthea” remains on hold, awaiting next steps.
The review’s outcome is unclear. Suspension of the EU-Israel agreement would require unanimous approval from all member states, a high bar. But even without that, the move reflects a growing shift in Europe’s stance and leaves Cyprus straddling a diplomatic tightrope.
