Tensions have escalated between Israel and the EU’s foreign minister, following the latter’s criticism of Israeli settlement building and the demolition of Palestinian homes.
Israel reportedly refused the visit of the head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell, because of the criticisms expressed by the latter on Israeli policy towards the Palestinians, according to local media.
“He doesn’t deserve to come here,” a political source told Army Radio on Wednesday, on condition of anonymity.
According to the radio, Borrell made several requests to visit Israel, but his request went unanswered.
Tensions have escalated between Israel and the EU’s foreign minister, following the latter’s criticism of Israeli settlements and home demolitions in the occupied West Bank.
“Settlements are illegal under international law and their expansion, as well as the demolitions and evictions of Palestinians from their homes, must be stopped,” Borrel said during his address to the European Union parliament. .
“The Israeli government must seriously address extremist settler violence and hold the perpetrators (of such violence) to account,” he added.
In an article last week, Borrell said Israeli settler violence against Palestinians was steadily escalating and that Israeli military operations frequently resulted in the death of Palestinian civilians.
Neither Israel nor the EU have yet confirmed the refusal of the visit of the head of European diplomacy.
In a telephone interview on Tuesday, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen urged Borrell not to interfere in Israel’s internal affairs.
According to the Palestinian authorities, more than 80 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the beginning of the year. Fourteen Israelis were also killed in different attacks during the same period.
This article is originally published on aa.com.tr
