Europe Rejects Investigation into Israel's Misuse of Research Funding

SadaNews - The European Commission announced that it currently has no intention of opening an investigation into reports alleging that Israel is misusing funds from the European research program "Horizon Europe."

This was stated by the Commission's spokesperson, Thomas Renier, during a press conference yesterday, Monday, in response to a query regarding Israel's use of European program funds to develop drone technology that it widely employs in its attacks on Gaza.

Renier said, "Israel is linked to the Horizon Europe program, and there is no change in that. The program finances civilian projects, and we have various mechanisms to ensure the respect of this civilian nature. We continue to monitor developments, and we have the authority to suspend or terminate contracts and recover funds when necessary."

On July 28, the Commission submitted a proposal to the Council of the European Union to partially suspend Israel's participation in the program, under pressure from some member states. Discussions within the Council began in order to reach a "majority" that would allow for the implementation of the suspension decision.

On Saturday, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated that she is "not very optimistic" about the possibility of the Union making a decision to impose sanctions on Israel, given the division among member states.

"Horizon Europe" is the EU's main platform for research and innovation, aiming to support economic growth, technological advancement, and job creation.

Israel joined the program in 2021 as a "partner country" on equal footing with EU member states.