EU Commission Outlines Widespread Penalties Against Israel
The European Union (EU) has proposed sanctions against Israel in response to developments in the Gaza Strip, including the withdrawal of trade preferences that could affect 37% of Israeli exports to the EU. The EU Commission's proposals, if adopted, would impose high costs on Israel, according to EU High Representative Kaja Kallas. The EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič has also clarified this decision's impact on Israeli exports. The total trade volume between the EU and Israel in 2024 was €42.6 billion, with EU imports from Israel valued at €15.9 billion and EU exports to Israel valued at €26.7 billion, highlighting the potential economic impact of these sanctions.
The EU Commission has accused Israel of violating human rights and international humanitarian law in its military offensive in the Gaza Strip, a claim met with sharp criticism from Israeli officials who argue the measures are disproportionate and unprecedented. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has described the recommendations as 'morally and politically distorted' and expressed hope that they would not be adopted. However, the support of key EU countries like Italy and Germany for the initiative is currently uncertain due to opposition from smaller countries.
The EU Commission has already announced the freezing of funds earmarked for Israel from an EU pot for international cooperation. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also called for an immediate ceasefire, unhindered access for humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
Not all EU member states have officially declared support for the proposed sanctions against Israel. While some countries like France are more inclined to support measures such as recognizing a Palestinian state to hinder Israeli annexation plans, others like Germany, Hungary, and Austria remain largely isolated in their reservations.
In addition to the proposed sanctions against Israel, the EU Commission has also recommended new sanctions against the Palestinian terrorist organization Hamas for initiating the Gaza war on October 7, 2023. The Commission is suggesting the withdrawal of trade preferences and punitive measures against extremist Israeli ministers and settlers.
EU Council President António Costa has stated that Europe cannot accept the measures taken by the Israeli government in Gaza and the West Bank, which go far beyond Israel's legitimate right to self-defense. The situation remains tense, with both sides dug in and the prospect of a peaceful resolution seemingly distant.
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