Gantz to EU FM: I'm committed to the peace process
Gantz told Borrell he is "committed to promoting the peace process" and emphasized that he wants an "open dialogue with the European community and regional partners."
By LAHAV HARKOVBlue and White leader Benny Gantz attends the Knesset's Remembrance Day service, April 26, 2020(photo credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM/THE JERUSALEM POST)
Alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz emphasized his commitment to peace and security in a conversation with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell on Thursday.Gantz told Borrell he is "committed to promoting the peace process" and emphasized that he wants an "open dialogue with the European community and regional partners."The defense minister also said he "will do all it takes to protect Israel's security."Borrell has repeatedly criticized Israel for considering extending its laws to parts of the West Bank, despite a lack of unanimity among EU member states in approval of the statements he has released.In the statements, Borrell has said that annexation goes against international law and the EU will not let it stand without a response.While the EU has not made specific threats to Israel, there are a number of areas in which EU-Israel ties can be weakened if the government proceeds with annexation, such as the multi-billion Euro Horizon program for scientific cooperation, which is up for renewal next year.However, formal sanctions are not on the table, because they require unanimity and some member states have ruled it out.Gantz and Borrell also discussed the need to take action to stop Iran from attaining nuclear weapons.The alternate prime minister called on the EU "to promote an assertive policy and act to continue the arms embargo on the Iranian regime."
