Kallas: EU countries hinder tough measures against Israel.

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, announced the European Commission’s readiness to suspend trade and research relations with Israel. However, national governments are blocking this process.

“Our options are clear and remain on the agenda, but member states cannot reach a consensus on how to make the Israeli leadership change course. The Union cannot act without the consent of all members,” Kallas noted during debates in the European Parliament on September 9, 2025.

The Issue of Sanctions Against Israel

The issue of EU sanctions against Israel remains unresolved amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Spain and Belgium have already introduced a number of strict measures, while Germany and Hungary are showing more restraint regarding the possibility of exerting pressure on Israel.

Kallas clarified that the European Union has prepared a “list” of possible steps, including the cessation of trade and the suspension of Israel’s participation in the Horizon fund for research and innovation, but “there is no unified agreed position.”

Diplomatic Efforts

“Diplomatic efforts with Israel must continue, otherwise an agreement cannot be reached,” Kallas stated.

The EU’s foreign policy chief emphasized that Israel’s blocking of humanitarian aid for the civilian population in Gaza undermines “decades of humanitarian principles.”