EU Proposes Tariffs and Sanctions on Israel Over Gaza Conflict

The European Union has unveiled a proposal to impose increased tariffs on certain Israeli goods and sanctions targeting specific Israeli officials and Hamas leaders, aiming to pressure Israel to end its military operations in Gaza.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that the measures are intended to influence the Israeli government's actions and alleviate human suffering in Gaza.

The proposed sanctions would freeze European assets and impose travel bans on individuals, including Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and ten Hamas leaders.

The EU, being Israel's largest trading partner, plans to suspend approximately €32 million in bilateral funds and introduce tariffs amounting to about €230 million on 37% of Israeli imports currently enjoying zero tariffs under an Association Agreement.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized the EU's approach, stating that Israel will not yield to threats concerning its security.

The 27-nation EU remains divided on the proposed measures, with uncertainty over whether a majority will endorse the sanctions and trade adjustments.

The conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in over 65,000 Palestinian deaths, according to health officials in Gaza.