EU Leader Demands Sanctions on Israel Amid Global Outrage Over Strikes

EU Leader Calls for Sanctions Against Israel Amid International Outrage STRASBOURG, France - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for sanctions and a partial trade suspension against Israel on Wednesday, as international condemnation grew over the country's strikes on Qatar and Yemen and its ongoing blockade of Gaza. Von der Leyen made the proposal during her annual State of the Union address in Strasbourg, where she described the situation in Gaza as "catastrophic." "People killed while begging for food. Mothers holding lifeless babies," she said. "These images are simply catastrophic." The proposed sanctions would be a significant shift in the West's relationship with its longtime ally Israel. The move comes as international outrage grows over Israel's actions, with many countries condemning the country's strikes on civilian targets. The European Union has long been a key supporter of Israel, but von der Leyen's proposal signals a possible change in the bloc's stance. "What is happening in Gaza has shaken the conscience of the world," she said. "We cannot stand idly by while innocent civilians are being targeted." Background and context: Israel's blockade of Gaza has been in place since 2007, when Hamas took control of the territory. The blockade has led to widespread poverty and unemployment, with many residents struggling to access basic necessities like food and medicine. The situation escalated in recent weeks as Israel launched strikes on Qatar and Yemen, which have been condemned by the international community. The United States, a key ally of Israel, has also faced pressure from progressive lawmakers who are pushing for an end to arms sales to the country. Additional perspectives: The proposed sanctions have been welcomed by many human rights groups, who have long criticized Israel's actions in Gaza. "This is a major step forward for accountability," said Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of Human Rights Watch Middle East and North Africa division. "We hope that the EU will follow through on its commitment to hold Israel accountable." However, some Israeli officials have condemned the proposal, saying it would harm innocent civilians. "Sanctions against Israel would only serve to hurt ordinary Israelis, not the government," said a spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in Brussels. Current status and next developments: The proposed sanctions are set to be discussed by EU leaders at an emergency meeting later this month. The outcome of the meeting is uncertain, but von der Leyen's proposal has sparked widespread debate about the future of Israel-EU relations. As international pressure on Israel grows, it remains to be seen whether the country will change its policies or face further consequences from the global community. *Reporting by Theintercept.*