EU Proposes Suspension of Trade Concessions with Israel Over Gaza War
The European Commission proposed suspending certain trade-related provisions of the Association Agreement between the EU and Israel in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, according to a statement by Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
The proposal, announced on Wednesday, includes increasing tariffs on some Israeli goods and imposing sanctions on 10 Hamas leaders, two far-right Israeli ministers, and violent settlers. The move is seen as a response to Israel's military operations in Gaza, which have sparked widespread international condemnation.
"We urge member states to take concrete steps to increase tariffs on certain Israeli goods," Kallas said in a statement. "We also believe that sanctions should be imposed on extremist Israeli ministers and violent settlers, as well as on Hamas leaders who are responsible for the violence."
The proposal is part of a broader effort by the EU to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians have been killed or injured in the conflict. The EU has already provided significant aid to the region, including food, medicine, and shelter.
However, the proposal faces significant opposition from some member states, which may not support the sanctions. "This is a complex issue, and we need to be careful about how we proceed," said an EU diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We don't want to alienate our Israeli allies, but at the same time, we have a responsibility to stand up for human rights and international law."
The Association Agreement between the EU and Israel is a key trade agreement that has been in place since 2000. It provides preferential tariffs on goods traded between the two regions and has helped to boost economic ties.
The proposal comes as the international community continues to grapple with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UN has called for an immediate ceasefire, while many countries have condemned Israel's military actions.
In a statement, the EU said that it would continue to work with member states to find a solution to the conflict. "We are committed to finding a peaceful and lasting resolution to this crisis," Kallas said. "We will continue to work with our partners in the region to promote peace, stability, and human rights."
The proposal is expected to be discussed by EU leaders at their next meeting, which is scheduled for later this month.
Background:
The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing since May 2021, when Israel launched a military operation against Hamas militants. The violence has resulted in the deaths of thousands of Palestinians and significant damage to infrastructure and homes.
The EU has been critical of Israel's actions in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid. However, some member states have opposed stronger measures, citing concerns about alienating their Israeli allies.
Additional Perspectives:
"This is a necessary step by the EU," said a Palestinian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We need to hold Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza."
"The EU should be careful not to overstep its bounds," said an Israeli diplomat, who also spoke on condition of anonymity. "We are committed to finding a peaceful solution to this crisis."
Current Status:
The proposal is currently being discussed by EU leaders and member states. A decision on whether to implement the sanctions is expected in the coming weeks.
Next Developments:
The EU will continue to work with member states to find a solution to the conflict.
The proposal will be discussed further at the next meeting of EU leaders, which is scheduled for later this month.
The international community will continue to monitor the situation and provide humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
