The European Commission will reportedly propose tough new measures against Israel on Wednesday, aimed at pressuring the Netanyahu government to change course in its war in Gaza.
Tough measures
Sanctions are expected against violent settlers and extremist ministers, along with the suspension of trade-related aspects of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Commission Chief Spokesperson Paula Pinho confirmed the planned steps on Tuesday during the European Commission’s Midday Press Briefing.
In her State of the European Union address last week, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen telegraphed possible actions in response to Israel’s conduct of the war. The EU’s commissioners, plus the EC president, are reportedly due to formally present the measures on Wednesday. It remains unclear whether individual member states will back the proposals.
United Nations conclusion
Earlier on Tuesday, a United Nations committee of inquiry concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Israel denies the allegation. The European Commission has not adopted that characterisation, stating that any such determination should be left to international courts.
