What it is about
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has begun the process of consulting EU member states on possibly imposing sanctions on some Israeli ministers. While Borrell has not specified which ministers, it is speculated to be National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
Why it matters
This move comes as part of a broader international conversation about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, especially in the context of the seven-week-old war between Israel and Hamas. By exploring sanctions, the EU is adding a layer of diplomatic complexity to regional tensions.
Background
Borrell’s focus on Ben Gvir and Smotrich follows their controversial public statements against Palestinians. In particular, Smotrich and Ben Gvir have made comments endorsing severe measures against Gaza, such as withholding fuel and aid.
Details
In a recent post on X, Borrell referred to the ministers’ statements as “sinister” and emphasized sanctions must be considered by the EU. This comes as Israel defends itself against Hamas-led terrorists and strives to minimize civilian casualties amidst accusations of intentional starvation and other war crimes.
The Israeli Perspective
Israel maintains that it aims to minimize civilian casualties while facing a terrorist adversary that uses human shields, including civilians, homes, hospitals, and schools.
Israel states the loss of civilian lives in Gaza is a tragic consequence driven largely by Hamas’s tactics, and any claim of genocide or intentional starvation are firmly denied, evidenced by their efforts to facilitate aid delivery.
Broader Context
Prominent international figures like UN high officials condemn the actions of specific Israeli ministers, potentially leading to these discussions becoming policy. Notably, the Biden administration has debated, but ultimately rejected, similar sanctions on these figures, citing the complexity of targeting elected representatives.
What’s Next
European countries will now deliberate on Borrell’s proposed sanctions, informed by broader geopolitics and their stance on international law. The outcome could signify a significant policy direction for the EU in its relationship with Israel.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.