Brussels: European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed Monday that the bloc is keeping the possibility of imposing sanctions on Israel alive, aiming to ensure compliance with a full ceasefire in Gaza. This announcement followed a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels, where Kallas emphasized the significance of observing tangible and sustained changes on the ground.
According to Qatar News Agency, Kallas stated, “The ceasefire has changed the context, that is very clear for everybody.” However, she stressed that unless there is a noticeable shift, including increased aid reaching Gaza, the potential for sanctions remains. “For now, we are not taking them off the table, but we are not moving with them either, because the situation is very fragile,” Kallas explained.
The EU is anticipating a series of steps from Israel, such as facilitating more humanitarian aid into Gaza and granting journalists access to the Strip. As the largest international donor to the Palestinians, the EU is exploring ways to enhance its role in Gaza following the conflict.
Additionally, the EU has reactivated a civilian mission to monitor the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt in support of the ceasefire agreement. However, this mission will remain suspended until the crossing is reopened.