EU accused of withholding Gaza reconstruction files as UN report alleges genocide in Gaza
The European Commission has refused to release 17 internal reports related to EU-funded infrastructure projects in Gaza, drawing criticism over transparency as a UN inquiry accuses Israel of committing genocide in the enclave.
The documents reportedly cover EU-backed civilian projects in Gaza between 2020 and 2023, including solar energy systems, water desalination facilities, and other infrastructure such as hospitals and schools. Many of these projects are believed to have been destroyed during Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
The refusal, issued by a senior Commission official in June, cited the protection of international relations and argued that there was no overriding public interest in disclosure. The request had been submitted under EU freedom of information rules.
Journalists and rights observers say the documents could reveal the extent of damage to EU-funded projects and increase pressure on Brussels to reassess its cooperation with Israel under its human rights obligations, including provisions in the EU-Israel Association Agreement.
Some of the projects were implemented with the support of European development agencies and NGOs, including organisations involved in water and renewable energy projects in southern Gaza. EU reports suggest that some initiatives were suspended or completed before widespread destruction in the conflict.
The refusal has also revived criticism over the estimated loss of hundreds of millions of euros in EU-funded infrastructure across Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, with calls for compensation or accountability.
The decision comes at the same time as a UN Commission of Inquiry concluded that Israel continues to commit genocide in Gaza, citing deliberate targeting of Palestinian children and widespread destruction of civilian life.
The UN report also alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity, including attacks in the West Bank and the use of detention practices involving torture and sexual violence against minors. It stated that the pattern of conduct demonstrates intent to destroy Palestinians in whole or in part.
UN officials said the continued killing and injury of children, even after a ceasefire period, is part of a broader pattern of systematic targeting, reinforcing findings of genocidal intent.
The developments have intensified pressure on the European Union to disclose its Gaza-related documentation and clarify its position on Israel amid ongoing legal and political scrutiny.
