Eu Taking Action After Ministers Involvement In Settler Violence

EU Foreign Policy Chief Calls for Bloc to Consider Sanctions on 2 Israeli Ministers

EU Taking Action After Ministers' Involvement in Settler Violence

Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, has urged the bloc to discuss the possibility of imposing sanctions on two Israeli ministers over their alleged involvement in settlement violence, according to Israeli media and EU officials.

Allegations Against Ministers

The accusations against the ministers, Aryeh Deri and Bezalel Smotrich, stem from their recent remarks and actions regarding Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories.

Calls for Sanctions

Borrell's call for sanctions reflects growing international concern over the increase in violence in Israeli-occupied territories and the expansion of settlements, which are considered illegal under international law.

EU Position on Settlements

The EU has consistently condemned Israeli settlement expansion as a violation of international law and an obstacle to a two-state solution.

Potential Impact of Sanctions

If implemented, sanctions on Deri and Smotrich could have significant diplomatic and economic consequences for Israel.

Background on Israeli Settlements

Israeli settlements are civilian communities established in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights, areas captured by Israel in the 1967 war.

International Law and Settlements

Under international law, the construction of settlements in occupied territories is considered illegal as it deprives local populations of their rights and resources.

Settlements and Peace Process

Settlement expansion is widely seen as a major barrier to peace between Israel and the Palestinians, as it undermines the viability of a two-state solution.

EU-Israel Relations

The EU and Israel have maintained close ties for decades, but tensions have risen in recent years due to Israel's settlement policies and violations of Palestinian human rights.