The EU Commission wants to impose sanctions on Israel over the situation in Gaza. But Germany and other countries disagree.
The EU Commission intends to impose sanctions on Israel due to the catastrophic situation in Gaza.
This concerns the termination of cooperation with Israel within the framework of the "Horizon Europe" program for promoting scientific research and development.
Germany does not agree with the sanctions planned by the EU Commission.
According to German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, sanctions in the field of research are unlikely to have any impact on Israel's political decision-making and military actions in the Gaza Strip.
Wadephul: Germany has made it very clear that it rejects Israeli plans
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stressed that Germany has limited arms shipments to Israel, which is a more appropriate measure.
Through this decision, Germany has "made very clear" its rejection of Israeli plans to occupy Gaza.
What is needed now, Wadephul stressed, is "willingness to agree to a ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip on the part of all warring parties.
EU not in agreement regarding sanctions
EU member states are deeply divided on measures against Israel in connection with the fight against Hamas.
Many of the sanctions being considered must be approved either unanimously or by a qualified majority, meaning by 15 of the 27 EU members, who together represent at least 65 percent of the population.
Sanctions against Israeli settlers in the West Bank have so far been blocked by Hungary.
Germany, on the other hand, refuses to suspend the EU Association Agreement or trade relations with Israel.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said that the stance on sanctions against him does not have a majority among members "sends the message that we are divided." /DW/
