Thu Sep 18 21:58:50 UTC 2025: ## EU Considers Suspending Trade Agreement with Israel Over Gaza Crisis
**Brussels, Belgium** – The European Commission is reportedly pushing for a suspension of the EU’s free trade agreement with Israel, citing the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. The move, aimed at pressuring Israel to scale back its military operations, also proposes sanctions against two Israeli ministers and settlers in the occupied West Bank.
“The European Union says the humanitarian situation in Gaza is untenable,” a statement from the Commission read. The proposed suspension of the trade agreement would make trade between the EU and Israel significantly more costly for Israel.
The proposal, however, faces a significant hurdle. It requires unanimous approval from the European Council, where it could face a veto from countries like Germany, who have historically strong ties with Israel.
“This is a serious step, but whether it will actually translate into a shift in Israeli policy remains to be seen,” commented Yannis Koutsomitis, a European affairs analyst. He added that the success of the measure hinges on overcoming internal divisions within the EU.
Israeli political analyst Akiva Eldar echoed this sentiment, noting that the effectiveness of the proposed sanctions depends on the unity of the EU and the willingness of member states to withstand potential political and economic pressure.
“The proposal needs the approval of the European Council and may face a veto from some countries, including Germany.”
Ulrich Bruckner, a Jean Monnet professor for European Studies, highlighted the potential ramifications of such a decision on the EU’s global standing. “This move could be interpreted as a significant shift in the EU’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and could have far-reaching implications for the bloc’s foreign policy,” he stated.
The potential suspension marks a significant escalation in the EU’s response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza and is being closely watched internationally. Whether the proposal will garner the necessary support within the European Council and ultimately impact Israeli policy remains to be seen.
First Piper 