EU Divides Over Action Against Israel Amid Gaza War
EU Ministers Face a Split on Israel
Quick Overview of Kaja Kallas’s Suggestions
- Freeze the whole EU‑Israel partnership
- Limit or halt trade links
- Target Israeli ministers with sanctions
- Introduce an arms embargo
- Stop visa‑free travel for citizens
Despite growing anger over the devastation in Gaza, European states remain divided over how to tackle Israel. Diplomats see no critical mass for any decisive move.
Key Points from the Monday Discussion
“I was asked to give the inventory of the options that could be taken and it’s up to the member states to discuss what we do with these options,” Kalla said. The tone of the talks will be shaped strongly by Israel’s implementation of a promise to the EU to improve humanitarian access to Gaza.
Progress on Humanitarian Access
Kalla confirmed a deal with Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar to open more entry points and allow more food into Gaza. Gaza’s two million residents face dire conditions as Israel severely limits aid. Kalla added that some good signs of more trucks getting in exist, but the implementation on the ground still needs a stronger push.
Regional Context in Brussels
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi described the Gaza situation as “catastrophic.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed confidence that further EU action would be avoided. “I’m sure none will be adopted by the EU member states,” he said, stressing there was “no justification whatsoever.”
Why the EU Stalled
The bloc has only agreed to review the cooperation deal after Israel resumed its devastating operation in Gaza following the collapse of a March ceasefire. Before the war broke out in October 7, 2023, deep divisions between countries backing Israel and those favouring the Palestinians had hamstrung any move.
War Background
The war was sparked by Hamas’s October 7 attack, which led to 1,219 deaths, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Of the 251 people taken hostage by militants that day, 49 are still held in Gaza, including 27 the Israeli military says are dead. Gaza’s health ministry reports that at least 58,386 Palestinians, most of them civilians, have been killed in Israel’s retaliatory campaign. The UN considers those figures reliable.
