EU proposes action on Israel trade and ministers over Gaza

AFP | Brussels

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The European Union yesterday proposed curbing trade ties with Israel and sanctioning ministers in its strongest action yet over the war in Gaza, though reluctance from key member states risks blocking adoption.

The bloc’s executive, however, said it would take immediate action by freezing some 20 million euros ($23.7 million) in support for Israel.

Pressure has mounted on the 27-nation bloc to act against Israel over its devastating near two-year offensive in Gaza.

“The horrific events taking place in Gaza on a daily basis must stop,” EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said.“There needs to be an immediate ceasefire, unrestrained access for all humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.”

Under its new proposals, Brussels is pressing to suspend the parts of a cooperation deal that allow for reduced tariffs on goods coming from Israel.

Officials said the measure would hit more than a third of Israel’s exports to the EU, worth around six billion euros -- including agricultural produce such as dates and nuts.

The commission also called for asset freezes and visa bans on far-right Israeli government ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich over their “extremist” rhetoric. Those measures -- initially floated by von der Leyen in a speech last week -- represent the firmest attempt by the EU chief to pressure Israel.“Today marks a critical turning point in holding Israel accountable,” said Irish foreign minister Simon Harris.But opposition from Germany and Italy means the bloc will struggle to get the backing of enough EU countries to go through.

That reluctance has already stalled a softer proposal to cut funding to Israeli tech firms, much to the ire of the EU countries demanding action.