The European Commission held an emergency meeting on Monday to consider the suspension of Israel of the Horizon Europe scientific program, a first concrete measure against the Hebrew state, initiated by Spain and Ireland in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza on Mistion. This debate, relaunched after a failure in Brussels in mid-July, marks a turning point in relations between Europe and Israel.
Horizon Europe, with 95.5 billion euros for 2021-2027, finances innovative research in science, technology, health or energy. Israel, a associate member since 2021, allows his organizations to apply for subsidies. An exclusion would have significant consequences, especially for Israeli start-ups, flagship of innovation, risking losing essential funding and collaborations.
This gesture, both symbolic and concrete, could affect the image of Israel and create a precedent for other sanctions. The Israeli Minister of Innovation, Gila Gamliel, denounced “irreparable damage”, warning that this initiative would compromise any ceasefire agreement. Israel insists on the negative impact for Europe, deprived of Israeli expertise in security and technology.
No decision has yet been made, but this debate sends a clear message: scientific ties are no longer immune to geopolitical tensions. Israel is preparing a diplomatic counter-offensive to preserve its access to this vital program, while pleading for a regional de-escalation. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly condemned the European Commission proposal aimed at limiting Israel’s participation to part of the Horizon program.
This measure is described as “erroneous, unfortunate and unjustified”. In a statement, Israel argues that such a decision, in full fight against jihadist terrorism of Hamas, would only strengthen this group and compromise the chances of a cease-fire and the release of hostages.
Israel undertakes to work so that this recommendation is not adopted by the EU Foreign Affairs Council, hoping for a rejection. Be that as it may, the Hebrew state claims that it will not give in to pressures concerning its national interests.
