Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced Thursday a complete halt to contact with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. The decision follows reports that Kallas allegedly compared Israel’s actions to South Africa under apartheid during a closed-door meeting in Mexico. News outlet Euractiv cited sources claiming Kallas made the comparison, though she has not publicly confirmed the remarks. Saar stated the alleged comments prompted the severing of all communication. The move signals a significant escalation in tensions between Israel and the EU. Kallas’ office has yet to issue a formal response to Saar’s announcement. The reported comparison has drawn strong condemnation from Israeli officials.