Europe Talks, Gaza Starves: Why the EU Still Can’t Decide on Israel

European Union (EU) foreign ministers remain deeply divided over how to respond to Israel’s war in Gaza, as pressure grows for the bloc to take a stronger stand. The EU’s humanitarian aid chief urged ministers to speak in a way that aligns with Europe’s “values and principles” as the conflict has caused mass destruction, hunger, and civilian deaths in the besieged territory.

Foreign ministers from the EU’s 27 member states met in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Saturday to discuss possible measures. One idea on the table was suspending EU funding to Israeli start-ups as a first step, but the proposal has not received enough support to pass. Many believe the EU is still far from agreeing on stronger actions.

Some EU Countries Push for Strict Measures, Others Want Lenient Actions on Israel

Member states remain split. Countries like Spain and Ireland want heavy pressure placed on Israel to stop its attacks, while others such as Germany and Hungary oppose tough measures and prefer little or no action. Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares told Al Jazeera that the EU is acting “too little, too late,” and that “doing nothing … hasn’t achieved anything.” He said he would push for stronger steps at the Copenhagen meeting.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas admitted she was “not very optimistic” and that no decisions would be made immediately. “It sends a signal that we are divided,” she said.

Several EU governments have criticized Israel’s conduct, particularly the high number of civilian deaths and the severe limits placed on humanitarian aid deliveries. Calls for action grew louder after the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a global hunger monitor that works with the UN, declared that famine exists in Gaza. Israel rejected the finding despite widespread evidence of extreme hunger and starvation.

Will European Union Impose Economic Restrictions on Israel?

Within the EU, some countries want economic pressure applied on Israel, while others stress the need to keep dialogue open. France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot also commented on a related issue, saying that no restrictions should be placed on who can attend next month’s UN General Assembly. His remarks came after the US said it would block visas for Palestinian Authority officials.

The EU’s executive branch recently proposed cutting Israeli access to a major EU research funding program. France, Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands supported the plan, but Germany, Italy, and others have resisted, leaving the proposal stalled.

Also Read: Qatar Warns: Israel Ignoring Ceasefire While Gaza Suffers – How Will Global Powers React