EU proposes trade strike on Israel over Gaza war: Bloc wants to ‘sanction extremist ministers’

The European Union has unveiled a sweeping package of punitive measures against Israel, proposing trade sanctions, tariffs and targeted restrictions on officials described as “extremist ministers,” in response to what it called “serious breaches of international humanitarian law” during the Gaza war.

In a statement released Wednesday, the European Commission outlined plans to suspend parts of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which grants Israel preferential access to European markets. The proposals also include new tariffs on agricultural products and stricter controls on goods linked to settlements in occupied territories.

“The European Union cannot stand idly by in the face of the devastation in Gaza,” Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in Brussels. “Trade relations must reflect respect for international law. Our measures will send a clear signal: violations come at a cost.”

According to Politico, the Commission is also recommending sanctions on specific Israeli officials, including what it described as “extremist ministers” directly linked to the conflict and settlement expansion. Such targeted penalties would mark the first time Brussels has gone after Israeli politicians by name.

The Guardian reported that while the package falls short of a complete suspension of free trade, it amounts to the EU’s most forceful response since the conflict began. Israel exported nearly €17 billion worth of goods to the bloc last year, with agriculture and high-tech industries heavily reliant on the European market.

Israeli officials reacted angrily to the announcement. “This is an act of hostility that rewards terrorism and punishes Israel for defending itself,” an Israeli foreign ministry spokesperson said.

The proposals will now go to the Council of the EU, where they require approval by a qualified majority of member states. Diplomats expect difficult negotiations, with countries such as Germany and the Czech Republic hesitant to endorse economic penalties. ABC News noted that southern and western European governments, including Ireland and Spain, have been pushing for stronger action.

Human rights organisations welcomed the move. “For too long, Israel has enjoyed impunity,” Amnesty International said in a statement. “Targeting extremist ministers and linking trade to humanitarian law is a vital step.”

Analysts say the outcome of the Council debate will determine whether the EU’s tough rhetoric translates into meaningful action. As von der Leyen put it: “Europe’s credibility depends on upholding our values, even when it is politically difficult.”

As the proposal moves to member states for debate and approval, it intensifies pressure on Israel amid a conflict that has drawn global condemnation. Analysts warn that the move could complicate regional diplomacy, but supporters argue it is a necessary step to uphold human rights and push for an end to the humanitarian crisis.