EU Proposes Sanctions and Trade Suspension on Israel Amid Gaza Crisis

Edited by: Ирина iryna_blgka blgka

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on September 10, 2025, a significant policy shift, proposing targeted sanctions and a partial suspension of trade with Israel. This move is a direct response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by famine and widespread malnutrition.

President von der Leyen cited reports indicating that 126 Palestinians, including 26 children, have died from malnutrition since famine was officially declared in Gaza City on August 22. She condemned the use of man-made famine as a weapon of war, emphasizing the urgent need to halt such practices. The UN Relief Chief has warned that the window to prevent famine from spreading to other areas of Gaza is rapidly closing.

The proposed measures include freezing bilateral support to Israel, with exceptions for collaborations with civil society organizations and Yad Vashem. Sanctions targeting extremist Israeli ministers and a partial suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, focusing on its trade provisions, are also on the table. The EU-Israel Association Agreement, in place since June 2000, is the foundation of trade relations, with the EU being Israel's largest trading partner.

Suspending parts of this agreement could have tangible economic repercussions for both Israel and European consumers. Israel's exports to the EU include high-tech components, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products. A trade suspension would likely disrupt supply chains, potentially leading to reduced availability and increased prices in Europe, while also impacting Israel's market access.

However, these proposals face considerable internal divisions among the 27 EU member states. Countries such as Germany and Hungary have expressed reservations about punitive actions against Israel, creating uncertainty about whether a majority will endorse the measures. Achieving the necessary qualified majority for suspending trade provisions, which requires support from 15 member states representing 65% of the EU's population, presents a significant political hurdle.

These developments occur against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict that began on October 7, 2023. The European Commission also plans to establish a Palestine donor group next month, aiming to support Gaza's reconstruction efforts. This initiative reflects the EU's broader commitment to humanitarian aid and its efforts to address protracted crises globally.

Sources

  • Idaho State Journal

  • EU Commission chief says she will propose new measures targeting Israel

  • EU Commission chief says she will propose new measures targeting Israel

  • EU moves to freeze some funding to Israel over war in Gaza

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