10.09.2025 11:51
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that they will cut trade relations and support with Israel. She also stated that they will impose sanctions on Israel's "extremist ministers."
After the airstrike on Qatar's capital, Doha, the European Union (EU) has taken action and is preparing to severely restrict its bilateral support and trade relations with Israel.
1. INFORMATION AND DECISIONS
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced in a speech at the European Parliament that they would halt all forms of aid to Israel (excluding non-governmental organizations and Yad Vashem). She also brought up the proposal to partially suspend the trade section of the trade partnership agreement. At the same time, she announced that sanctions would be imposed on Israel's "extremist ministers."
2. SANCTIONS AND SUSPENSION DECISION
The decision to halt aid covers direct payments to the state or government of Israel. In contrast, areas such as cooperation with non-governmental organizations like Yad Vashem and memorial activities are excluded from this decision.
3. TRADE AGREEMENT AND R&D FUND
The EU is proposing to suspend the "trade" part of the commercial agreement made with Israel. This step means withdrawing the advantages granted for the entry of Israeli goods into the EU market. For the decision to come into effect, a qualified majority vote from EU countries is required, which complicates reaching a consensus among members. Previously, a similar restriction on Israel's access to the Horizon Europe research program had been discussed, but sufficient support could not be garnered.
4. AID STEPS TO PALESTINE
The European Commission announced that it will establish a "Palestinian Donor Group" next month for the reconstruction of Gaza. This initiative aims to provide funding specifically for infrastructure and humanitarian needs in Gaza.