The European Commission has outlined plans to curb trade with Israel and sanction extremist ministers, in a strong response Netanyahu’s mass destruction of Gaza.
The proposals, tabled by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last week, would suspend trade-related provisions of the EU–Israel Association Agreement.
This would effectively remove Israel’s privileged access to European markets, subjecting billions of euros worth of exports—particularly agricultural produce such as dates and citrus fruit—to tariffs.
Despite the strong language, the measures appear unlikely to be adopted. Trade restrictions require a qualified majority of member states, while sanctions on individuals demand unanimity.
Germany and Italy have raised objections, while countries such as Ireland and Spain are pressing for far tougher action. This division leaves the proposals with little prospect of approval.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas admitted the political hurdles remain steep, saying the Council’s positions “are very much in the place where they have been so far.”
She stressed that the package targets Hamas operatives, unnamed extremist ministers in Israel’s government, violent settlers, and entities backing impunity in the West Bank.
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The EU is Israel’s largest trading partner, accounting for 32% of its trade in goods last year, worth €42.6 billion (£35.8 billion). Yet the impact of ending tariff preferences would be limited. Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič estimated losses to Israel at just €227 million annually.
For now, the only measure taking immediate effect is the suspension of bilateral support to the Israeli government. This move is largely symbolic, affecting just €9.4 million out of €14 million allocated for 2020–24, and does not require member state approval.
Commissioner Dubravka Šuica clarified that EU funding for civil society initiatives and programmes combating antisemitism will remain intact.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar dismissed the Commission’s plans as “morally and politically distorted,” warning that actions against Israel would harm Europe’s interests and pledging a firm response. The timeline for a vote on the proposals remains uncertain.
Bbcnews.com
