Europe threatens sanctions on 'Israel' over Gaza war

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Saturday she is “not optimistic” about imposing sanctions on 'Israel' due to lack of consensus, noting that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire.

Read more: 'Israeli' artillery targets tents sheltering displaced in Gaza, leaving 15 dead

Several European leaders urged 'Israel' to deliver aid to Gaza, resume payments to the Palestinian Authority, and halt West Bank settlement projects:

• France: Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Baroux warned that failure to meet these demands could prompt EU-level sanctions.
• Spain: Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares proposed a plan including an arms export ban and expanded sanctions on 'Israel'.
• Germany: Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized respect for humanitarian principles and rejected Gaza occupation plans.
• Netherlands & Sweden: Called for pressure on 'Israel' and Hamas, including a ban on importing West Bank settlement products.
• Ireland, Austria, Denmark, Slovenia, Norway: Called for stronger EU measures, including sanctions, travel bans, and trade restrictions.

Leaders cited reports of mass atrocities in Gaza since October 7, 2023, with over 63,000 Palestinians killed, 159,000 injured, and hundreds of thousands displaced, warning that words alone are no longer enough.