Kaja Kallas responds after Israeli foreign minister says he will ‘sever all contact’ with her
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has severed all contact with the European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, following reports that she compared Israel to South Africa’s former apartheid regime. The diplomatic rift emerged Thursday after Sa’ar publicly demanded a denial or clarification regarding remarks allegedly made by Kallas during a trip to Mexico in May.
Diplomatic Standoff Over Alleged Remarks
The dispute centers on unverified reports that Kallas, a former Estonian prime minister, equated Israel to the historical South African segregationist system. Sa’ar addressed the matter on social media, stating he had “no choice but to sever all contact” until Kallas retracts what he termed a “blood libel.” He argued that the lack of a formal denial from the EU official prompted his decision to halt communication.
In response, Kallas stated that she values “dialogue and engagement” with Israel and maintains that the EU is committed to a “constructive relationship.” However, her statement did not explicitly address or deny the reported comments. Sa’ar responded to this omission by stating that by avoiding a direct denial, Kallas is effectively leaving the reported claims standing.
In September, 142 countries voted in favor of a two-state solution at the United Nations General Assembly, while 10 nations—including the United States, Israel, and Hungary—voted against the proposal.
EU Policy and the Path Forward
Despite the breakdown in direct communication between the two officials, Kallas reaffirmed the European Union’s official stance on the Middle East. She stated that the EU views a two-state solution as the “only viable path” to peace. Kallas further noted that the EU continues to condemn illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which she identified as a primary obstacle to achieving that diplomatic goal.
The current tension occurs against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict in Gaza. The war began following the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the taking of roughly 250 hostages. Subsequent Israeli military operations, aimed at dismantling Hamas, have resulted in approximately 73,000 deaths according to the Gaza health ministry.
The suspension of contact between a major regional power and a primary international mediator signals a significant decline in diplomatic relations. Analysts suggest that if this freeze persists, it could hinder EU-led efforts to facilitate negotiations or provide humanitarian oversight in the region, as direct communication channels are essential for navigating the complexities of the two-state solution framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Gideon Sa’ar sever contact with Kaja Kallas?
Sa’ar stated he cut contact because Kallas allegedly compared Israel to South Africa’s former apartheid regime and failed to issue a denial or clarification when prompted.
What is the European Union’s position on the conflict?
Kallas stated that the EU supports a two-state solution as the only viable path to peace and continues to condemn illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Has Kaja Kallas denied the reported remarks?
No. In her public response, Kallas emphasized a commitment to a “constructive relationship” with Israel but did not explicitly address or deny the specific comments attributed to her.
How might this breakdown in communication impact future diplomatic negotiations between the European Union and Israel?