EU Commission suggests extensive penalties towards Israel
The European Union (EU) has proposed a series of sanctions against Israel in response to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. The proposal, which includes the freezing of funds and the withdrawal of preferential trade treatment, aims to pressure Israel to change its course of action, viewed by the commission as a violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.
According to EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, imports from Israel would lose their preferential access to the EU market if the penalties are implemented, making them subject to tariffs at the same level as those imposed on countries without a free trade agreement with the EU. This could potentially impact 37% of Israel's exports to the EU, amounting to a significant financial blow.
The EU Commission's decision to freeze funds for Israel does not require the approval of the EU member states. However, the adoption of these sanctions requires a qualified majority of 15 out of 27 EU countries, representing at least 65% of the total EU population.
Israel was forced into the Gaza war after a Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. In response, the EU Commission has proposed sanctions against several Israeli officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who have been accused of human rights violations and incitement to hatred.
The proposed sanctions also include penalties against extremist Israeli ministers and settlers. However, the initiative from Brussels faces potential opposition from EU countries like Germany and Italy, as well as smaller countries like Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Austria.
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 beyond Israel's legitimate right to self-defense. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged an immediate ceasefire, unhindered access for humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has described the recommendations as 'morally and politically distorted' and threatened a response if the sanctions are adopted. Despite this, Israel has not indicated any intention to back down from its military offensive in the Gaza Strip.
In 2024, Israel's trade with the EU accounted for around 32% of its total international trade in goods. The total trade volume in goods between the EU and Israel was €42.6 billion, with EU imports from Israel worth €15.9 billion and exports to Israel worth €26.7 billion.
The EU Commission's proposal is not the first time Israel has been criticized by the EU. Previously, Israel had sharply criticized the EU Commission's proposal to suspend parts of the cooperation within the Horizon Europe research funding program. However, this measure has been prevented so far.
Most EU member states publicly support the Commission's proposed sanctions against Israel, with the exception of Germany and Italy, which have expressed opposition or hesitation. Countries like Spain have voiced clear disagreement with Germany's rejection, and all other large and many smaller EU states are in favor of the sanctions.
As the situation in the Gaza Strip continues to escalate, the EU's proposal for sanctions against Israel marks a significant escalation in the EU's response to the conflict. Israel, however, has stated that it will not be intimidated by threats as long as its security is at risk.
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