A "Despicable" Accusation from a Top EU Official
During an interview with Spanish television channel "La Sexta," Borrell directly addressed Netanyahu's frequent tactic. "Netanyahu responds to all criticism by accusing us of anti-Semitism. I think it is despicable to label those who criticize what is happening as anti-Semitic," Borrell stated.
The former EU diplomat's criticism intensified significantly as he made grave allegations regarding Israel's military campaign. He suggested that Netanyahu is committing genocide and seeks the elimination of the Palestinian people. "I believe there is a clear intention of genocide. The definition of genocide coincides literally with what the Israeli defense minister says every day," Borrell asserted.
Condemnation of Occupation and Settler Violence
Borrell also condemned the Israeli violence and repression carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. He offered a stark assessment of the situation there, saying, "It is clear that there is occupation and displacement in the West Bank. Palestinians live there in an apartheid state."
Background: The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
These strong remarks come as Israel, with unconditional American support, continues its military operations in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023—operations described by numerous international organizations as acts of genocide.
The devastating toll of this Israeli offensive includes:
Approximately 177,000 Palestinians killed or wounded.
The majority of casualties are women and children.
Over 11,000 people missing.
Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians.
Implications and International Repercussions
Borrell's statements represent a notable shift in high-level European diplomatic rhetoric toward Israeli policies. They reveal growing international condemnation of Netanyahu's military and security strategies in the Palestinian territories.
Furthermore, these comments highlight the deepening divide within the international community regarding the legitimacy of Israeli actions. The discourse is increasingly shifting from Israel's right to defend itself to urgent questions about violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.
Source: Anadolu Agency