EU Divides Over Israel Sanctions Amid Gaza War, Germany Blocks Measures

The European Union remains deeply divided over how to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and potential punitive measures against Israel, with no consensus reached at a recent informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Copenhagen. European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas expressed disappointment over the lack of unity, highlighting disagreements on suspending free trade with Israel under the EU-Israel Association Agreement, with countries like Germany and Hungary opposing the move. Dutch Foreign Minister Ruben Brekelmans noted the polarization within the bloc but mentioned the possibility of a smaller group of countries forming a core coalition to take action, including suspending trade and increasing sanctions against Israeli officials. Germany, represented by Foreign Minister Johan Wadephul, has blocked sanctions such as suspending research funding for Israeli companies, arguing that such measures would be ineffective, instead focusing on restricting arms deliveries to Israel. Despite proposals to impose tariffs on imports from occupied territories and exclude Israel from research programs like Horizon, the EU faces challenges in achieving a qualified majority for sanctions due to differing national stances. Overall, EU officials acknowledge that any measures adopted may have limited impact, but some see limited contributions as better than inaction.