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Saturday, Jun 14, 2025
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European Union Funding Intersects with Israeli Defense Industry Amidst Gaza Conflict
Investigation reveals financial ties between EU funds and Israeli arms companies despite ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Brussels – As the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the European Commission faces scrutiny over its funding of Israeli defense companies.
Recent findings indicate that approximately one billion euros from the EU's Horizon research and innovation fund have been allocated to Israeli arms manufacturers, amidst ongoing calls for accountability regarding financial support in light of current conflicts.
An investigation by Belgian media highlighted that Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI), a major player in the global arms market, is linked to 15 projects supported by the European Defence Fund (EDF).
This funding mechanism was established in 2017 to enhance defense cooperation within the EU, and although originally intended for European entities, it can extend to third countries under certain conditions.
The European Commission has responded to these reports by asserting that the funding is governed by stringent safeguards intended to prevent any involvement in violations of fundamental rights.
Nonetheless, the effectiveness of these monitoring mechanisms has been questioned, including by the EU Court of Auditors.
A significant concern revolves around Greek Intracom Defense, which is primarily owned by IAI, being permitted to engage in multiple EDF projects, some of which commenced after the onset of intense hostilities following the events of October 7, 2023. This includes a project focused on the development of an armed drone, which received funding of 14 million euros.
The European Commission received notification from Greece regarding the involvement of this third-country company, leading to the necessary assurances being provided for approval.
The Commission has stated that it ensures protections against the transfer of sensitive information, aiming to align project outcomes with EU law and international humanitarian law.
EU spokesperson Thomas Regnier confirmed that assessments were made prior to the escalation of violence in the region, with commitments to ongoing monitoring and evaluation of funded projects.
He characterized suggestions for reevaluation of funding as speculative.
The situation remains complex as the EU balances its commitment to its member states and defense policy with the overarching humanitarian concerns arising from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Recent findings indicate that approximately one billion euros from the EU's Horizon research and innovation fund have been allocated to Israeli arms manufacturers, amidst ongoing calls for accountability regarding financial support in light of current conflicts.
An investigation by Belgian media highlighted that Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI), a major player in the global arms market, is linked to 15 projects supported by the European Defence Fund (EDF).
This funding mechanism was established in 2017 to enhance defense cooperation within the EU, and although originally intended for European entities, it can extend to third countries under certain conditions.
The European Commission has responded to these reports by asserting that the funding is governed by stringent safeguards intended to prevent any involvement in violations of fundamental rights.
Nonetheless, the effectiveness of these monitoring mechanisms has been questioned, including by the EU Court of Auditors.
A significant concern revolves around Greek Intracom Defense, which is primarily owned by IAI, being permitted to engage in multiple EDF projects, some of which commenced after the onset of intense hostilities following the events of October 7, 2023. This includes a project focused on the development of an armed drone, which received funding of 14 million euros.
The European Commission received notification from Greece regarding the involvement of this third-country company, leading to the necessary assurances being provided for approval.
The Commission has stated that it ensures protections against the transfer of sensitive information, aiming to align project outcomes with EU law and international humanitarian law.
EU spokesperson Thomas Regnier confirmed that assessments were made prior to the escalation of violence in the region, with commitments to ongoing monitoring and evaluation of funded projects.
He characterized suggestions for reevaluation of funding as speculative.
The situation remains complex as the EU balances its commitment to its member states and defense policy with the overarching humanitarian concerns arising from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
