Brussels: The European Union on Wednesday proposed restrictions on trade with Israel and sanctions against two far-right ministers in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, marking the bloc’s strongest move yet over the Gaza war. The European Commission announced its decision to freeze around 20 million euros ($23.7 million) in bilateral support for Israel, amidst growing pressure on the 27-member bloc to address what it described as Israel’s ongoing activities in Gaza for over two years.
According to Jordan News Agency, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages held by Hamas during a meeting of the executive. Under the new proposals, the EU aims to suspend parts of a cooperation agreement with Israel, impacting more than a third of Israel’s exports to the EU, valued at approximately six billion euros, including crucial agricultural products like dates and nuts.
The Commission also advocated for freezing the assets of two far-right Israeli ministers, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, accusing them of inciting violence through their extremist rhetoric. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris remarked that the decision signifies “a significant turning point in holding Israel accountable.”