The situation in Gaza is dramatic. Hundreds of thousands are living without sufficient supplies, medical care, or safe shelter. The massive military force used by the Netanyahu government has long exceeded any notion of self-defence – it violates international law and claims the lives of civilians every single day.

Europe must take a clearer stance – against these actions and in favour of a political solution. And yes, it is entirely possible to criticise a government without questioning a country’s existence or its people. Our commitment must be to protect human lives – both in Gaza and in Israel.

That’s why I say clearly: Our friendship with Israel, our partnership with its democratic civil society, is not up for debate. But the suffering in Gaza is shaking our relationship with the current government – and we must respond.

As the Greens/EFA group, we welcome the long-overdue review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. If the Israeli government continues on its current path, this review must result in real consequences – including the suspension of joint programmes.

At the same time, we call for an end to all arms exports and military cooperation that contribute to the destruction in Gaza or enable the expansion of illegal settlements. Europe must live up to its responsibility.

If we allow horror to justify new horror – only horror can grow.