Divided EU Discusses 10 Options Against Israel Over Gaza Conflict

The European Union is considering ten potential measures against Israel in response to its actions during the war in Gaza, including suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement, restricting trade ties, sanctioning Israeli officials, imposing an arms embargo, and halting visa-free travel. However, EU member states remain divided, and no consensus is expected to be reached on adopting any of these measures. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar rejected the proposals as unjustified and emphasized that Hamas obstructs humanitarian aid to Gaza by controlling aid distribution. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted an agreement with Israel to improve humanitarian aid access to Gaza, though some EU members criticize the adequacy of these efforts amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The situation remains tense and complex, with Jordan describing conditions in Gaza as 'catastrophic' and Israel confident it will avoid further EU penalties. Overall, the discussions reflect the EU's struggle to balance humanitarian concerns with political and strategic considerations regarding Israel.