Brussels ( The COW News Digital)The European Union has warned that sanctions against Israel remain on the table if the objectives of the Gaza ceasefire are not fully met. Despite the ongoing truce, EU leaders say that the situation on the ground must show “tangible and lasting improvement” before any relaxation of political pressure can be considered.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas made the remarks following a meeting of European foreign ministers in Brussels. She emphasized that while the ceasefire has reduced immediate hostilities, it has not yet resolved the underlying humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“The possibility of sanctions against Israel is still very real,” Kallas said. “It will remain under discussion until we see clear progress — sustained access to humanitarian aid, restoration of Palestinian revenues, and freedom for journalists and NGOs to operate safely.”
Kallas underscored that the EU’s message to Israel is straightforward: achieving the true objectives of the ceasefire requires more than a pause in fighting. “If humanitarian assistance continues to be blocked or restricted, or if conditions worsen, the European Union will have to act,” she warned.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, addressing the European Parliament earlier, announced the formation of a “Palestine Donor Group” to coordinate aid efforts and ensure accountability for funds directed toward Gaza’s reconstruction. She also confirmed that a draft sanctions bill targeting Israel remains “on the table” should the humanitarian situation deteriorate.
Diplomatic sources within the EU revealed that before the truce, member states had considered several punitive measures — including blacklisting certain Israeli ministers, reducing trade cooperation, and freezing financial assets. The plans were temporarily paused following U.S.-brokered ceasefire negotiations but could be revived if Israel fails to uphold its obligations.
Human rights organizations across Europe have urged Brussels to adopt a firmer stance, arguing that Israel’s continued restrictions on aid convoys and press access violate international humanitarian law. Several EU lawmakers have echoed this sentiment, insisting that the bloc must back its words with concrete action.
As the ceasefire in Gaza remains fragile, the EU’s warning signals a growing impatience within Europe over Israel’s conduct. Whether the bloc proceeds with sanctions will depend largely on Israel’s response in the coming weeks — and whether peace translates into real relief for civilians in Gaza.
