EU weighs custom duties on settlement products, sanctions against Israeli ministers
BRUSSELS, May 09 (YPA) – The European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council is set to convene next Monday in Brussels to discuss a series of punitive measures against “Israel,” driven by escalating settlement activities and the deteriorating situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.
According to reports, a joint French-Swedish initiative leads the agenda, proposing the imposition of comprehensive customs duties on products originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, the Golan Heights, and East Jerusalem (Quds).
If approved, these tariffs could increase the prices of settlement goods—such as dates, wine, and Dead Sea products—by 20% to 30% in European markets. Israeli diplomats have indicated that the likelihood of the proposal passing is “high,” as the decision requires only a “qualified majority” rather than a full consensus of the 27 member states.
This shift comes amid growing European frustration over settler violence and legislative moves that diverge from the fundamental values and human rights outlined in the EU-Israel Association Agreement.
Parallel to economic measures, the Union is considering personal sanctions against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, as well as settlers involved in acts of violence.
Observers note a potential decline in Hungary’s traditional “veto” support for “Israel”, alongside mounting tensions with Italy following the targeting of Christian institutions.
Meanwhile, the EU Ambassador to “Israel”, Michael Mann, has categorized the significant expansion of settlements as a “red line,” noting that Brussels is exploring additional avenues to pressure the Israeli government.
These diplomatic developments coincide with a rapid acceleration of settlement expansion, with the current occupation government approving the construction of 54 settlements in 2025 alone. The move also follows a public appeal from over 400 former European officials urging immediate action against the “illegal annexation” of the occupied West Bank through strategic settlement projects.
YPA