The European Union (EU) has come under criticism for its decision to suspend sanctions against Israel, amid U.S. efforts led by Donald Trump to broker peace in the Middle East, while the fragile ceasefire risks collapse.
Following a meeting of EU foreign ministers, High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas announced a pause in plans to implement preferential trade suspensions with Israel and sanctions against individuals responsible for escalating the conflict. Kallas emphasized that the situation had changed, and ministers agreed to temporarily halt action, though the measures have not been permanently removed.
Criticism from Former EU Diplomats
Some former EU diplomats, including Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff, criticized the decision, describing it as a failure to uphold legal accountability. He argued that sanctions are a key tool for the EU to respond to violations of international law and human rights.
In June, the EU concluded that Israel had breached human rights obligations under the Association Agreement, while legal experts urge the EU to comply with an International Court of Justice (ICJ) opinion calling for an end to the occupation of Palestinian territories.
Concerns Over Lifting Sanctions
Experts such as Nathalie Tocci warned that removing the measures could be a strategic mistake, potentially turning the EU into a “payer” rather than an active player in the Middle East.
The decision reflects divisions among EU member states, with countries like Spain and Ireland supporting Palestine, while Hungary and the Czech Republic support Israel.
