The EU-Israel Association Agreement entered into force in 2000 and covers topics ranging from the framework for political dialogue to agriculture and the free exchange of goods. Any EU review based on concerns about rights would send a strong diplomatic signal, but it remains unclear whether Brussels will ultimately take action.

The European Union will review a pact governing its political and economic ties with Israel due to the "catastrophic" situation in Gaza, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said on Tuesday after a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers.

Amid growing pressure over Gaza, EU foreign ministers say they want to review their trade relations with Israel, but they have stopped short of announcing firm action.