The European Commission has detailed plans for significant measures targeting Israel, following an initial announcement by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The proposals involve suspending specific trade-related provisions within the Association Agreement between the EU and Israel.
According to a statement released by the Brussels-based Commission on Wednesday, a prior review determined that actions undertaken by the Israeli government have contravened fundamental aspects concerning respect for human rights and democratic principles, as stipulated in Article 2 of the agreement. This assessment provides the EU with grounds for a unilateral suspension of the agreement.
The proposed suspension primarily impacts core provisions of the trade agreement, resulting in Israeli goods losing preferential access to the EU market. These imports will then be subject to tariffs applicable to other third countries lacking a free trade agreement with the EU.
Beyond the trade restrictions, the EU is also planning sanctions against individuals identified as “extremist ministers” within the Israeli government and against settlers engaged in violence.
Furthermore, the Commission is halting its bilateral support for Israel, with exceptions made for civil society organizations and Yad Vashem. This suspension applies to future annual allocations scheduled between 2025 and 2027, as well as ongoing institutional cooperation projects with Israel.
President von der Leyen stated, “The horrific events unfolding daily in Gaza must end. There must be an immediate ceasefire, unfettered access for all humanitarian aid and the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas.
The ultimate decision regarding the suspension of specific trade-related provisions rests with the Council and requires a qualified majority vote. The level of support for this proposal within the EU remains uncertain.