Brussels, April 14 (SANA) A European citizens’ initiative calling for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement has surpassed one million signatures, clearing the threshold required for formal review by the European Commission.

Data from the European Citizens’ Initiative platform shows the petition reached more than 1,007,000 signatures by early Tuesday, meeting the requirement of at least one million verified signatories across a minimum of seven EU member states.

Gaza’s destruction drives petition

The campaign cites Israel’s conduct in the Gaza Strip, accusing it of causing large-scale civilian casualties, displacement and damage to medical infrastructure. It also raises concerns over restrictions on humanitarian aid, which organizers say could amount to the use of starvation as a method of warfare.

The petition argues that Israel has failed to comply with obligations under international law, including orders issued by the International Court of Justice. Despite this, it notes, the EU has maintained its association agreement with Israel, which underpins bilateral political, economic and trade relations.

Organizers are calling on the European Commission to submit a formal proposal to the European Council to fully suspend the agreement.

Growing pressure within the EU

The initiative was launched in Brussels on January 13 by a coalition of left-wing members of the European Parliament, aiming to increase political and legal pressure on EU institutions.

Campaigners describe the move as both a moral and legal response to what they characterize as ongoing Israeli violations in Gaza, including attacks on civilian infrastructure and forced displacement, issues that have been highlighted in multiple international reports.

The petition reflects broader public debate within Europe over the EU’s relationship with Israel amid the ongoing conflict.

What happens next

Under EU rules, once an initiative reaches one million valid signatures across at least seven member states, the European Commission is required to examine the proposal and respond.

The European Citizens’ Initiative mechanism, introduced under the Lisbon Treaty, allows citizens to directly call on the Commission to consider new legislation, though it does not obligate the EU to adopt the proposed measures.

ABD