The European Commission is seeking to impose sanctions on Israel over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, but Germany and several other EU member states oppose the move.
The proposed measures would include suspending cooperation with Israel under the “Horizon Europe” scientific research and innovation program.
However, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that such sanctions are unlikely to influence Israel’s political or military decisions regarding its campaign in Gaza.
“Germany has already restricted arms deliveries to Israel, which is a far more effective measure,” Wadephul said, stressing that Berlin has made its rejection of Israel’s plans to occupy Gaza “very clear.”
The German foreign minister added that what is urgently needed now is a commitment by all parties to agree on a ceasefire in Gaza.
EU Remains Divided Over Israel Sanctions
The issue has deeply divided EU member states. Many sanctions require either unanimity or a qualified majority (15 out of 27 member states representing at least 65% of the EU’s population).
So far, Hungary has blocked sanctions against Israeli settlers in the West Bank, while Germany has opposed suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement or trade relations.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas admitted that the lack of consensus sends a negative signal:
“The fact that there is no majority on sanctions conveys the message that we are divided.”
