Luxembourg holds international responsibility and duty regarding Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, according to conclusions in two research notes by external experts presented to the Chamber of Deputies’ Foreign Affairs Committee, prompting reactions across the political spectrum.
For Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP) MP Franz Fayot, who requested the analyses to be conducted, it is clear that Luxembourg must take a stand and act more decisively.
Fayot said the conclusions mirror his own position and a stance he has long supported.
He added that while the reports contain extensive information, their main conclusion is that Luxembourg has much more room for manoeuvre and should lead by example in respecting its international obligations, including those under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
In terms of concrete action, the experts state that Luxembourg can ban imports that support the illegal occupation. They also propose fine-tuned financial and investment controls.
Green MP Sam Tanson underlined that the current legal framework already allows for a range of measures. She explained that the research note highlights existing measures that should be applied more effectively, while also suggesting ways to further improve the legislative tools at hand. These are expected to be clarified in an exchange with Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel.
The analysis also finds that Luxembourg carries a responsibility towards international institutions. Franz Fayot argued that the recent decision by Spuerkeess, which is fully state-owned, to close the accounts of the International Criminal Court due to the threat of American sanctions reflects a lack of political courage on the part of the government. In his view, Luxembourg has an obligation to take a more active stance.
Tanson added that, beyond the legal debate, the issue is also a moral one. She said it raises questions about ethics and how the government positions itself, noting that it has intensely struggled to take a clear stance.
Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) parliamentary group president Laurent Zeimet acknowledged the findings of both reports but argued that the focus should not be solely on Israel. He questioned how Luxembourg should address other states accused of violating international law and whether such measures should be applied consistently. He added that this is an issue that needs to be discussed with the government in the Foreign Affairs Committee, as it could have far-reaching implications.
Zeimet also noted that he could not recall Luxembourg setting a strong example in supporting pro-democracy demonstrators in China.
The conclusions of the analyses are set to be discussed with Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel in the near future.
