The European Union is contemplating additional sanctions on Israeli settlers and settlement groups, according to Sven Koopmans, the EU Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process.
Koopmans reiterated that all settlements are illegal under international law, posing an obstacle to peace and jeopardizing the two-state solution.
During a meeting with journalists in Ramallah, Koopmans disclosed to the Palestinian news agency WAFA that the EU had already sanctioned four settlers and two settlement groups for their terrorist attacks on Palestinian citizens and their property.
He emphasized that this is a small initial step towards curbing the escalating violence and terrorism perpetrated by settlers.
Koopmans noted ongoing discussions with Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and EU foreign ministers about further actions to combat settler violence and terrorism.
Koopmans also shared his recent visit to Area C in the West Bank, where he met with a Palestinian family from a Bedouin community surrounded by settler outposts.
He witnessed the escalating terror they face from settlers and highlighted the unanimous consensus among EU member states that such actions are unacceptable. He suggested that the EU might take broader measures in response.
In April, the European Council decided to impose sanctions on four settlers and two extremist Israeli groups for their assaults on citizens in the West Bank, including occupied Jerusalem.
The sanctions include asset freezes, a ban on providing funds or economic resources to or for the benefit of the individuals or groups, and travel bans.
Countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Spain, France, and Belgium have implemented similar measures.
Regarding the recognition of Palestine by Spain, Norway, Ireland, and Slovenia, and its importance in affirming the Palestinian right to self-determination and supporting the two-state solution,
Koopmans stated that recognition is at the discretion of individual EU member states.
He noted that some countries recognized Palestine years ago, some are recognizing it now to advance the peace process, while others believe recognition should occur at the end of the peace process or when there is an ongoing peace process.
Commenting on the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza since October 7, Koopmans condemned the immense suffering and destruction in Gaza, particularly the deaths of large numbers of civilians, mostly women and children.
He criticized the lack of humanitarian aid reaching the starving population and insisted that the Israeli military operation in Rafah should not proceed.
