EU chief urges sanctions on Israeli ministers over war on Gaza

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
10 Sep 2025 13:30
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for EU sanctions on far-right Israeli ministers and a suspension of trade ties with "Israel", citing the devastating war on Gaza and use of famine as a weapon.

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gestures as she delivers a major state of the union speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, eastern France, Wednesday, September 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Pascal Bastien)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Wednesday, September 10, her intention to push for sanctions against some Israeli ministers and to curtail trade relations with "Israel" in response to the devastating war on Gaza.

Speaking before the European Parliament, von der Leyen expressed frustration over internal divisions among EU member states, stating, “What is happening in Gaza has shaken the conscience of the world... This must stop.”

The EU chief declared that while unity among the 27 member states remains elusive, the European Commission will take independent steps where possible.

Von der Leyen announced plans to suspend bilateral support payments to "Israel", while maintaining cooperation with civil society organizations and institutions such as the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial.

In addition, she vowed to propose sanctions on "extremist" Israeli ministers and violent settlers, citing rhetoric and actions that incite further violence.

The Commission will also recommend a partial suspension of the EU-"Israel" association agreement, particularly regarding trade-related aspects. However, all proposed actions require consensus from the EU’s 27 member states, a challenge von der Leyen acknowledged openly.

“I am aware it will be difficult to find majorities,” she said. “But we must all take our own responsibilities.”

Mounting civilian death toll and famine in Gaza

The calls come amid growing international outrage over the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, now nearing its second year.

"Israel’s" retaliatory campaign has since killed at least 64,605 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

The UN recently declared famine in parts of Gaza, warning that over 500,000 people are facing “catastrophic” conditions due to the continued blockade and destruction of infrastructure.

At least 393 people, including 140 children, have been killed as a result of the Israeli starvation campaign on the besieged enclave.

Despite repeated international calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, internal divisions within the European Union have hindered the formation of a united policy.