EU Remains Divided on Action Against Israel Over Gaza War.
European Union foreign ministers met in Brussels on Tuesday to consider possible measures against Israel over its war in Gaza, but divisions within the bloc make any agreement unlikely.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas presented 10 potential responses after the bloc found Israel in breach of human rights commitments under an EU-Israel cooperation agreement. Options range from suspending the deal entirely and imposing trade restrictions to sanctions on Israeli ministers, a possible arms embargo, and ending visa-free travel for Israeli citizens.
Despite growing criticism of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, diplomats say there is little consensus among member states to move forward with any of the proposals.
Kallas acknowledged the lack of unity ahead of the talks, saying the focus would likely remain on improving humanitarian access in Gaza rather than taking punitive steps. “We see some positive signs,” she said Monday, referring to Israeli commitments to open more border crossings and restore water and electricity. “But the situation is still catastrophic. More must be done.”
The agreement to improve aid access followed a recent meeting between Kallas and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. Speaking in Brussels, Saar dismissed the possibility of EU action, saying, “I’m sure none of [the proposals] will be adopted. There’s no justification.”
Although no immediate steps are expected, the fact that the EU is formally debating measures marks a shift. The bloc only agreed to review its cooperation with Israel after the collapse of a Gaza ceasefire in March and the resumption of Israeli military operations.
Longstanding internal divisions have made a unified EU response difficult. Hungary, a consistent supporter of Israel, is expected to block further sanctions — including efforts to penalize Israeli settlers in the West Bank. French officials, including Europe Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, continue to push for stronger action, but progress remains limited.
The war began on October 7, 2023, with a Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians, and led to the capture of 251 hostages. According to Israeli authorities, 49 remain in Gaza, 27 of whom are believed to be dead.
In response, Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza that has killed at least 58,386 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry — figures the United Nations considers credible. With only modest humanitarian improvements on the ground and little agreement among member states, the EU’s path forward remains unclear.
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