Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has stood by the extensive sanctions her institution proposed on Israel this week in relation to its military efforts in the Gaza Strip.
In a written interview with the Leading European Newspaper Alliance, von der Leyen noted that she understood the horrific attacks orchestrated by Hamas in October 2023 had fundamentally shaken Israel.
“But the latest developments are particularly worrying, with a man-made famine and the financial drying up of the Palestinian Authority,”
She said in the comments released on Sunday.
Why does Von der Leyen stress on two-state solution?
Von der Leyen emphasised that the two-state solution, which includes a Palestinian state existing peacefully and in good neighbourly relations alongside Israel, is the only option for sustainable, long-lasting peace in the region.
“What we have seen from the Israeli government in recent months is a clear attempt to undermine the two-state solution.”
That is why the commission decided to act and proposed a package of “targeted and proportionate measures to find a way forward,” von der Leyen said.
Why is the EU considering sanctions against Israel?
The European Commission put forth a number of punitive actions to encourage the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to change its course in the conflict. In her annual State of the Union speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday, von der Leyen decried the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic,” indicating plans to reduce support for Israel and introduce some sanctions.
The proposed “package of measures” includes sanctions on “extremist Israeli ministers” and settlers, a suspension of bilateral support for Israel, and a suspension of the EU’s association agreement with Israel, which gives it preferential access to European markets.
“Europe needs to do more,”
Said von der Leyen, adding that while she would attempt to move the bloc in unison, EU member states also needed to take “our own responsibility” on the issue.
“Europe’s goal has always been the same. Real security for Israel and a safe, present future for all Palestinians,”
She said.
How has Israel reacted to the EU’s proposed sanctions?
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar was quick to criticise the EU chief and asserted that she was offering backing to Palestinian armed groups, including Hamas.
“The remarks made this morning by the President of the European Commission are regrettable. Some of them also echo the false propaganda of Hamas and its partners,”
Saar wrote on social media.
“Once again, Europe is sending the wrong message, which strengthens Hamas and the radical axis in the Middle East.”
Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
