European Union foreign ministers debated potential actions against Israel concerning the Gaza war on Tuesday. However, significant agreement on concrete measures appears unlikely, as the bloc remains deeply divided over its response.
Proposed Measures Face Hurdles
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas presented ministers with ten possible steps, following findings that Israel breached a key cooperation deal on human rights grounds. Proposed actions include suspending the entire accord, curbing trade ties, sanctioning Israeli ministers, imposing an arms embargo, and halting visa-free travel.
Despite widespread anger over Gaza’s devastation, diplomats report no critical mass exists for any specific move. “I can’t predict how the discussion will go,” Kallas admitted before the Brussels talks. Consequently, the immediate focus will likely shift towards leveraging humanitarian improvements.
Kallas announced a tentative agreement last Thursday with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. This deal aims to open more aid entry points and allow increased food supplies into Gaza. Israel has severely restricted aid during its conflict with Hamas, creating dire conditions for two million residents.
Kallas noted some positive signs Monday, which includes more open border crossings, electricity line repairs, increased water access, and additional aid trucks arriving. “However, the situation in Gaza remains catastrophic,” she stressed. “We absolutely need to see more for real improvement on the ground.”
Political Divisions Persist
Foreign Minister Saar expressed confidence Monday that the EU would reject any sanctions. “I’m sure none of them will be adopted. There’s no justification whatsoever,” she said. Reaching even this discussion stage, however, marks a significant shift for the divided bloc.
The EU only agreed to review its cooperation deal after Israel resumed military operations post-ceasefire collapse in March. Previously, stark divisions between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian member states blocked any action, with Hungary continues blocking further sanctions on West Bank settlers despite French appeals.
Hamas sparked the war with its 7 October, 2023, attack on Israel, as official figures confirmed 1,219 deaths, mostly civilians. Hamas militants also took 251 hostages; 49 remain captive in Gaza, with Israel declaring 27 deceased.
Palestinian health authorities in Hamas-run Gaza report at least 58,386 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians, from Israel’s campaign. The immense human cost continues driving international concern and diplomatic pressure.
