EU Commission announces proposals for sanctions against Israel
Brussels (dpa) – In response to Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip, the EU Commission will present further concrete proposals for sanctions against the country this Wednesday. According to a spokesperson, this will include a possible suspension of certain trade benefits that are part of an association agreement between the EU and Israel.
The proposal is part of the measures announced last week by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the spokesperson said. These also include a halt to payments from an EU fund for international cooperation.
It is unclear whether the proposal to suspend trade facilitation will receive the necessary support from the Council of EU member states. Von der Leyen herself admitted last Wednesday that she was aware it would be difficult to find majorities for it.
The EU is deeply divided in its dealings with Israel. To this day, there is not the necessary majority for a Commission proposal submitted in July to suspend parts of the cooperation under the Horizon Europe research funding program. Among others, the German government is against the measure, arguing that it is not targeted enough. On the other hand, for example, the Spanish government believes that the EU’s actions are far too hesitant.
Regarding the current Israeli ground offensive in the city of Gaza, a spokesperson for EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said that the EU has repeatedly urged Israel not to intensify the operation in Gaza City, as this would lead to more destruction, more deaths, and more displacement. “It is high time to break the cycle of violence, destruction, and suffering,” the spokesperson demanded.
