EU unanimously approves sanctions on Israeli settlers and Hamas leaders
Primary region Europe
Tags Diplomacy · Justice · Security
Regions Europe · Middle East
EU foreign ministers on May 11 unanimously approved sanctions targeting violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank and new sanctions on leading Hamas figures, after Hungary dropped months of opposition following its change of government. The sanctions target three individuals and four settler organizations including Nachala, Regavim, HaShomer Yosh, and Amana. EU foreign policy chief Kallas called it a move 'from deadlock to delivery.' Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the decision as 'arbitrary and political.' France and Sweden are pushing for broader trade restrictions on settlements.
Strategic interpretation
Hungary's government change was the decisive factor enabling the sanctions, demonstrating how single-member vetoes can shape EU foreign policy for months. The unanimous vote marks the first time the EU has backed retributive measures related to Israel since the Gaza crisis began, signaling a significant shift in European willingness to pressure Israel. France and Sweden's push for trade restrictions suggests further escalation is possible.