Israel Challenges EU's Horizon Funding Curbs

Israel's foreign ministry criticized a European Union recommendation to restrict Israeli participation in the Horizon research funding program, labeling it as misguided and unwarranted. The ministry expressed its commitment to ensuring the recommendation is not approved by the EU Foreign Affairs Council.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has strongly opposed a recommendation made by European commissioners to limit Israel's involvement in the European Union's Horizon research funding program. The ministry described the move as "mistaken, regrettable and unjustified."

In response, Israel has committed to taking steps to prevent the adoption of this recommendation by the EU Foreign Affairs Council. A post on X, a social media platform, conveyed the ministry's position, expressing hope that the council will not endorse this proposal.

Horizon is the EU's leading funding program for research and innovation. Participation provides access to collaboration and research opportunities, making the potential restriction a matter of significant concern for Israel. The issue underscores ongoing tensions and intricacies in EU-Israel relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)