Brussels has already activated its sanctions against Israel for the war in Gaza, and among the proposed actions, the EU highlights the partial suspension of the trade agreement between both territories. Specifically, the EU aims to increase tariffs on part of Israeli exports. On 37% of them, which currently do not pay any tariffs.
According to EU sources, the result of this is that "when Israel sells products to the EU, there will be a higher bill in terms of tariffs to pay: around 227 million euros per year based on the 2024 trade."
"The goal is not to punish Israel, the goal is to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. All member states agree that the situation is unsustainable," explained the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas.
However, this action will now need approval from the countries. A qualified majority will be required, which does not seem easy to achieve given the likely reluctance of Germany, Austria, or even Italy. For this to go through, it will be necessary for 55% of the countries representing at least 65% of the EU population to support the action.
"We are not going to speculate today on whether there will be a qualified majority or not. I think the president has been very clear about it. We will assume our responsibility. She assumes her responsibility, and the Commission and the College assume their responsibility today. And, of course, we hope that other institutions do the same," said the European Commission.
Even more challenging will be the approval of other actions against Israel: the sanction "against two extremist Israeli ministers and violent settlers". For this proposal to go through, the very unlikely unanimity of the member countries will be necessary. What will be directly implemented is the suspension of direct aid from the EU to Israel, amounting to 14 million euros.