29 Jul 2025
Commission proposes partial suspension of Israel's association to Horizon Europe
On 28 July 2025, the European Commission proposed to partially suspend Israel's participation in Horizon Europe. The suspension specifically concerns the participation of entities established in Israel in activities funded under the Accelerator of the European Innovation Council (EIC). The proposed suspension would not affect the participation of Israeli universities and researchers in collaborative projects (Pillar II) and research activities under Horizon Europe.
The Commission states that this suspension comes as a reaction to the review of Art. 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Respect for these obligations constitutes an essential part of EU-Israel cooperation under the Agreement, including for bilateral scientific and technological cooperation between the two parties.
While Israel has announced a daily humanitarian pause in Gaza fighting and has met some of its commitments under the common understanding on humanitarian aid and access, the situation remains severe, the Commission argues.
The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action.
For the Commission's proposal to be adopted, it must receive the support of a qualified majority in the Council of the European Union.
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