After weeks of disagreements, the European Union has reached a “political agreement” to sanction extremist Israeli settlers, announces Josep Borrell, the bloc’s foreign policy chief. The breakthrough occurred during a meeting of the bloc’s foreign affairs ministers where the issue was discussed, giving diplomacy a new chance. The sanctions were initially delayed by some countries, including Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria, who are supporters of Israel. However, the devastation in Gaza and reports of violence against Palestinians resulted in a sense of urgency during talks. The final roadblock was removed by Hungary, raising hopes for a breakthrough.
Illegal settlements in the West Bank are considered a major obstacle to achieving peace through a two-state solution. The sanctions will target specific individuals responsible for violent acts, with restrictions including a travel ban and asset freezing in EU territory. The decision was part of a diplomatic strategy to coincide with fresh sanctions against Hamas, designated a terrorist organization by the bloc. The EU established a sanctions regime targeting individuals or entities supporting Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. In reaction to the attacks in Israel, a dedicated sanctions regime was implemented, adding six financiers to the blacklist in January.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza was highlighted by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, showing extreme food insecurity for the population. The report indicated that more than 31,000 people had been killed during the conflict, with half the population facing acute food insecurity and famine imminent in some areas. The military conflict, limited access to supplies and healthcare, and the escalation of hostilities have contributed to the crisis. Josep Borrell described Gaza as a “graveyard” due to the loss of life and the violation of humanitarian law principles.
Borrell also proposed a “political orientation debate” regarding the future of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which has been in place since 2000. Spain and Ireland have called for an urgent review of the agreement, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies. However, during the ministerial meeting, six member states opposed the review, complicating the situation. Borrell suggested inviting Israel’s foreign affairs minister and the new Palestinian Authority prime minister to the next meeting in Brussels as a more practical alternative.
The EU sanctions on extremist Israeli settlers come in response to reports of violence against Palestinians and support for Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The restrictions include a travel ban and asset freezing in EU territory. The decision was part of a diplomatic move coordinated with sanctions against Hamas. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the conflict, limited access to aid, and damaged infrastructure, has prompted calls for action. Borrell highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, condemning the loss of life and the violation of humanitarian law principles.
The political agreement to sanction extremist Israeli settlers represents progress after weeks of disagreements within the European Union. The sanctions target individuals responsible for violent acts and echo broader measures against groups supporting Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The crisis in Gaza has heightened the urgency of addressing the situation, with calls for action to alleviate the humanitarian suffering. The future of the EU-Israel Association Agreement remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing regarding potential revisions or alternatives. Borrell’s proposal for a political debate on the agreement and invitations to key stakeholders demonstrate efforts to navigate complex diplomatic challenges within the EU.
