The European Union’s Foreign Ministers are set to discuss the potential imposition of sanctions on two Israeli ministers, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, in an informal meeting on Thursday.
This move comes amid growing concerns within the EU over what has been described as repeated “hate speech” by the two far-right Israeli politicians.
According to a report by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth on Wednesday evening, Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, is expected to lead the discussions.
Borrell aims to convince EU foreign ministers to pass a resolution that would impose sanctions on Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, who hold key positions in the Israeli government.
However, Israeli sources have downplayed the likelihood of such sanctions being approved, noting that Borrell’s proposal faces significant opposition within the EU.
Several member states are reportedly reluctant to back sanctions against the Israeli ministers, fearing potential diplomatic repercussions.
Borrell’s push for sanctions stems from the inflammatory rhetoric frequently used by Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, which has sparked controversy both domestically and internationally.
Smotrich, Israel’s Finance Minister and a prominent figure in the Religious Zionism party, and Ben-Gvir, the National Security Minister and leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, have both been accused of inciting violence and promoting discriminatory policies, particularly against Palestinians.
The potential sanctions reflect the broader tensions between the EU and Israel, particularly regarding Israel’s policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The EU has been increasingly vocal in its criticism of Israeli actions, including settlement expansion and the treatment of Palestinians, which many in the international community view as violations of international law.
This latest development underscores the EU’s growing willingness to take a firmer stance on Israel, especially in the context of its current right-wing government.
The outcome of Thursday’s discussions could signal a significant shift in EU-Israel relations, depending on whether Borrell can garner sufficient support for his proposal.
