According to a report, the European Union is considering introducing a series of potential sanctions against Israel for alleged human rights violations amid the conflict in Gaza. Sources indicate that the EU’s diplomatic service plans to present various measures to EU ambassadors later this week. These measures could include partial or full suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, targeting Israeli officials and settlers with sanctions, imposing trade limitations, enacting an arms embargo, and halting scientific cooperation. While previously discussed informally, this marks the first formal documentation of such options.
EU foreign ministers are set to review these proposals on July 15. To enact sanctions, unanimous agreement among all 27 EU member states is necessary, a challenging feat given Hungary’s ongoing support for Israel, having previously blocked sanctions against Israeli settlers. This push follows an internal review last month which suggested possible breaches of Israel’s human rights commitments under the Association Agreement. Israel has dismissed the review, with its Foreign Ministry deeming it unworthy of serious consideration and insisting the nation is defending itself against common threats.
In late June, the European Council called for a ceasefire in Gaza and highlighted concerns about civilian casualties and humanitarian conditions. Although Israel claimed to have eased the blockade, various reports indicated minimal changes. Currently, the EU has no sanctions specifically on Israel but has sanctioned individuals and organizations they consider extremist. This situation developed after a surprise 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel, which prompted a significant Israeli military response in Gaza, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides.
