Sweden and Netherlands Push EU to Sanction Israel and Hamas Over Gaza War

TDT | Manama

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Foreign ministers call for suspension of EU-Israel trade deal and targeted sanctions on leaders

Sweden and the Netherlands have urged the European Union to impose sanctions on both Israel and Hamas over the ongoing war in Gaza. In a joint letter sent to EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, the two countries called for restrictions on Israeli government ministers, Jewish settlers in occupied Palestinian territories, and Hamas’s political leadership.

The letter also demanded suspending parts of the EU-Israel association agreement that provide free trade benefits in key sectors such as industry and agriculture. The proposal will be discussed by EU foreign ministers during a meeting in Copenhagen on Saturday.

The letter, dated August 27, specifically urged action against Israeli ministers accused of promoting illegal settlement activities and undermining peace efforts. Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the goal was to create “difficulties” for those responsible for expanding settlements in occupied territories.

Dutch Ministerial Change Amid Debate
The Netherlands’ push comes shortly after Caspar Veldkamp resigned as foreign minister due to a cabinet dispute over sanctions on Israel. He has since been replaced by Ruben Brekelmans, who co-signed the letter with Stenergard.

The two ministers also requested further measures against Hamas, which the EU already classifies as a terrorist organisation. They argued that additional steps were needed to increase pressure on the group, which controls the Gaza Strip.

The letter coincided with a grim announcement from the United Nations on Friday, which officially declared a famine in Gaza. The UN blamed Israel for systematically obstructing aid deliveries during more than 22 months of conflict.