Kaja Kallas Stresses EU’s Role in Israel-Palestine Crisis During Visit to Tel Aviv

During a joint press conference in Tel Aviv with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas reiterated the European Union’s commitment to Israel’s security while emphasizing the necessity of negotiations to de-escalate the ongoing conflict. Her visit comes amid renewed violence following the breakdown of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a situation she described as “appalling.”

Producer: EC, Audiovisual Service European Union, 2025

Kallas opened her remarks by condemning a recent attack on a rabbi in France, reinforcing the EU’s zero-tolerance stance on antisemitism. She also recalled the EU-Israeli Association Council meeting held a month prior, highlighting the strong trade and technological partnerships between the two entities.

However, her visit was overshadowed by the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the uncertain fate of hostages held by Hamas. Expressing deep sympathy for the victims and their families, she stated, “Violence feeds more violence. What we are witnessing now is a dangerous escalation.” While affirming Israel’s right to self-defense, she urged proportionality in military operations, cautioning against actions that could heighten regional tensions, particularly Israeli strikes into Syria and Lebanon.

Kallas reaffirmed the EU’s readiness to facilitate humanitarian efforts and support reconstruction initiatives in Gaza. She cited discussions with Arab and Islamic leaders in Cairo regarding the Arab plan for Gaza’s future governance and reconstruction, indicating that the EU sees it as a viable foundation for progress.

On Iran, Kallas and Sa’ar found common ground in viewing Tehran as a major threat to regional and global stability. She condemned Iran’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine and reiterated the EU’s firm opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Q&A Highlights: The EU’s Role and Parallel Conflicts

During the Q&A session, Kallas was asked whether the EU has the political will and capacity to help shape Gaza’s future. She affirmed that the EU sees the conflict as a pressing issue, rejecting any role for Hamas in Gaza’s governance. “Our neighbors’ problems today are our problems tomorrow,” she stated, signaling the EU’s commitment to long-term stability.

When questioned on whether her call for negotiations in Gaza applied similarly to Ukraine’s war with Russia, Kallas drew a clear distinction. “Russia has attacked brutally Ukraine and went [against] their territorial integrity,” she said, emphasizing that Ukraine is defending itself against an aggressor, whereas Gaza’s situation requires a different diplomatic approach.

Addressing Israeli actions in Syria, Kallas expressed concerns over potential radicalization. While acknowledging Israel’s security concerns, she suggested that continued military operations in Syria could inadvertently fuel extremism, ultimately working against Israel’s interests.

Kallas’ visit underscored the EU’s balancing act: supporting Israel’s security while advocating for humanitarian relief and diplomatic solutions. As the crisis in Gaza deepens, her message was clear—negotiation remains the only viable path forward.

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