The European Union is grappling with internal divisions over imposing sanctions on Israel for its ongoing war in Gaza, as foreign ministers from the bloc’s 27 member countries gather in Copenhagen to discuss the issue.
The meeting comes amid growing criticism of Israel’s actions, with many EU governments sharply condemning the deaths of civilians and restrictions on humanitarian aid supplies.
At the heart of the debate is a proposal to suspend EU funding to Israeli start-ups, which has yet to garner the necessary majority support from member countries. Countries like Spain and Ireland are pushing for heavy pressure on Israel, while others, including Germany and Hungary, are more cautious, preferring to maintain dialogue.
“We are witnessing the most catastrophic humanitarian catastrophe. Israel must change its course,” said Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen. “We should find common ground. I am not revealing a secret by saying we must change words into sanctions.”
Rasmussen added that Denmark is ready to suspend the trade chapter in the association agreement and impose sanctions on the Netanyahu government and some ministers.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas expressed skepticism about reaching a consensus, stating, “I’m not very optimistic, and today we are definitely not going to adopt decisions. It sends a signal that we are divided.”
The divisions within the EU are evident, with some member states stressing the need for economic measures to pressure Israel, while others prioritize maintaining dialogue.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached critical levels, with reports of famine and widespread suffering. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has determined that there is famine in Gaza, a finding rejected by Israel despite overwhelming evidence.
Hadja Lahbib, the European commissioner for crisis management, emphasized the need for the EU to find a collective voice on Gaza, stating, “What is happening there is haunting me and should haunt all of us… Because this is a tragedy. And we will be judged by history.”
In addition to the Gaza conflict, the EU foreign ministers will discuss the war in Ukraine and the future of frozen Russian assets. Ukraine and some EU countries have called for the EU to confiscate the assets, valued at 210 billion euros, and use them to support Kyiv. However, EU heavyweights France and Germany, along with Belgium, have resisted such calls.
The EU’s struggle to find a unified stance on Israel and Gaza reflects broader challenges in addressing global crises. As public pressure mounts, EU politicians are under increasing scrutiny to deliver on their promises to protect humanitarian law and human rights.
Hashem Ahelbarra noted, “The problem is there is a change of mood on the streets of Europe… More and more people across Europe say that the EU failed to deliver on the promises it made when it comes to the protection of humanitarian law and human rights.”
As the EU grapples with these complex issues, the international community watches closely, aware that the bloc’s response will have far-reaching implications for the people of Gaza and beyond.
The divisions within the EU will likely continue to shape its approach to the Israel-Gaza conflict, with significant consequences for those affected by the war.
What is your opinion on this issue? Do you think the European Union should be divided on meeting sanctions on Israel? Let’s have your opinion.