New EU research rules could be used to throw Israel out of Horizon

Draft rules for Horizon Europe's 2028–2034 cycle would make non-EU countries' participation depend on "European values," including human rights, international law, gender equality and, by name, the 1948 Genocide Convention, Ynet reports. Israeli officials see the genocide clause as aimed at them. Ynet quotes it being called "BDS's biggest victory ever."

The European Parliament's industry and research committee votes on Nov. 10, and the full Parliament is set to vote Nov. 23, Calcalist reports. Then come talks with the Council and the Commission, with a final vote expected in March. The Commission has proposed €175 billion for the 2028–2034 cycle.

As drafted, the conditions apply to countries seeking to join, so Israel is expected to argue they don't cover a member of 30 years. Israel has taken part in EU research programs for about 30 years, and the clause wasn't in earlier versions of the rules. Israel's Foreign Ministry and its embassies in Europe are working with pro-Israel MEPs to fight it.