Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has stated that the proposed measures will not impact Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul confirmed that Germany has blocked the European Commission’s most recent proposal to sanction Israel over the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Israel has encountered increasing criticism regarding its conduct in the conflict, with allegations of allowing very little aid into the enclave. Consequently, several Western nations have declared intentions to recognize a Palestinian state and, in some cases, reduce military and trade cooperation with Israel.
Last week, the European Commission proposed suspending Israel’s participation in the Horizon Europe research program, alongside cutting off funding for Israeli start-ups involved in drone technology, cybersecurity, and AI. This move, according to a draft resolution, aimed to pressure Israel into improving humanitarian aid deliveries.
Speaking to reporters during an EU meeting in Copenhagen on Saturday, Wadephul stated that Germany rejected the proposal, as it was “not convinced” that restricting Israel’s access to EU research funds would influence its military actions. He pointed out that Berlin has already limited the delivery of weapons potentially used in Gaza, suggesting Brussels should consider similar actions.
He commented, “I believe this is a very targeted measure, one that is very important and very necessary.”
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged on Saturday that the bloc remains divided on this issue, stating she is “not very optimistic” that ministers will reach an agreement soon, despite full unanimity not being required. She further noted that some member states advocate for stronger economic pressure.
Denmark, holding the EU’s rotating presidency, recently indicated support for tougher sanctions, such as suspending trade with Israel. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares and his Slovenian counterpart, Tanja Fajon, have both condemned the EU’s perceived inaction concerning Gaza. Fajon told Bloomberg this week that the bloc has not imposed “a single measure” against Israel, contrasting this with the bloc’s unity in sanctioning Russia over the Ukraine conflict.
The conflict in Gaza began in 2023 following an attack by Hamas militants on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the taking of over 250 hostages. Since then, Israeli forces have killed more than 61,000 people within the enclave. Earlier this month, a UN-backed panel declared a famine in northern Gaza, with over half a million people on the verge of starvation.