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EU proposes sanctions against Israel over Gaza atrocities
The European Commission has introduced a proposal to impose sanctions on Israel in response to what it describes as genocidal actions in Gaza. The initiative includes increasing tariffs on specific Israeli products and suspending trade-related provisions under the EU-Israel Association Agreement.
The decision follows a review of Israel’s adherence to Article 2 of the Agreement, which mandates respect for human rights and democratic principles. The commission concluded that Israel’s actions constitute a breach of these essential terms, granting the EU the right to unilaterally suspend the agreement.
Targeted sanctions and humanitarian concerns
The proposal, spearheaded by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, seeks to sanction extremist Israeli ministers, violent settlers, and Hamas leaders. It emphasizes Israel’s settlement expansions in the West Bank and the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza as primary reasons for the measures.
The commission cited the dire conditions in Gaza, including restricted humanitarian aid, widespread starvation, and the ongoing blockade, as factors necessitating immediate action. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the situation as “horrific,” calling for an urgent ceasefire and unrestricted access to humanitarian assistance.
Von der Leyen also stressed the importance of suspending trade concessions with Israel and freezing bilateral support, while maintaining cooperation with Israeli civil society groups.
Challenges within the EU
Despite the urgency of the proposal, reports from Al Jazeera highlight potential hurdles in securing unanimous support from all EU member states, a requirement for the sanctions to take effect.
The proposal represents a significant escalation in the EU’s response to the Gaza crisis, underscoring the bloc’s growing concerns over human rights violations and the need for accountability.