Tensions rise as EU considers sanctions against Israel over Gaza conflict

Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defense from the European Union are scheduled to convene for an informal meeting on August 29 and 30 in Copenhagen, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as the primary agenda item. However, the escalating war in the Gaza Strip is also set to feature prominently in discussions, with the possibility of consequential decisions being made.

Central to the deliberations will be Israel’s announced intent to intensify military operations in Gaza, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Israeli diplomatic officials have voiced apprehension regarding a growing bloc within the EU that is openly critical of Israel’s actions. This faction is reportedly poised to advocate for the imposition of sanctions aimed at deterring a full-scale occupation of Gaza.

Spain and Ireland are leading efforts to push for the suspension of all existing agreements between Israel and the European Union. Nonetheless, several key member states—including Hungary, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Italy—are expected to resist such sweeping measures, effectively blocking attempts to sever broad diplomatic and economic ties.

Despite the resistance to comprehensive sanctions, the anti-Israel coalition within the EU is likely to pursue targeted punitive measures. These may include the cancellation of cooperation agreements in academic and technological sectors, as well as proposals to terminate trade arrangements that currently allow for tariff-free exchange of goods between Israel and EU member states.

Importantly, any move to implement partial sanctions would require a qualified majority—two-thirds of member state votes—rather than unanimous approval, underscoring the complexity and potential volatility of the upcoming negotiations.

By Vafa Guliyeva