Major differences persist in European Union’s stance on taking action against Israel
There are deep divisions, and the question remains whether they will be able to narrow those differences.
On one side, you have Germany, Austria, Italy and Hungary, staunchly pro-Israel, who have been dismissive of any push to impose sanctions, arguing that such measures are pointless, and that this is not the time to do it.
On the other hand, you have countries like Spain, Ireland, some Baltic states, and Scandinavian nations asserting that now is the time – to recognise Palestine, impose sanctions and suspend the association agreement with Israel in order to demonstrate to the world that Europe stands by its own ideals and principles.
It is unlikely that these differences will be narrowed today. Some suggest beginning with symbolic and smaller steps, such as trade restrictions or banning Israeli ministers, particularly Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, from entering the European Union, before imposing broader measures.
Denmark FM says ready to put sanctions on Israeli ministers
Denmark’s Foreign Minister said his country is ready to impose sanctions on ministers in the Israeli government and suspend the trade pillar of the EU’s association agreement with Israel.
Speaking before an EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Copenhagen on Saturday, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, whose country holds the EU’s rotating presidency, said Denmark felt action was necessary to persuade Israel to rein in its violence in Gaza.
“We are witnessing the most catastrophic humanitarian catastrophe. Israel must change its course,” he said.
Suspending the trade chapter in the EU’s association agreement with Israel would reinstate tariffs on Israel’s trade with the EU, its biggest trading partner.
Slovenia, Netherlands call for action against Israel
Slovenia’s foreign minister: We have taken measures against Israel, including banning the entry of ministers and banning trade and arms deals with Israel. We will demand that the European Union take tougher measures against Israel.
Netherlands foreign minister: We, along with Sweden, asked the EU to pressure Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement. We will propose a ban on the import of products from settlements in the West Bank. Israel’s expansion of settlement policy must force us to change our positions and deal differently.
