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3w ago

EU Urges Gaza Ceasefire but Delays Action on Israel Trade Agreement

The European Council identified potential human rights breaches by Israel under the long-standing trade pact, with ministers set to revisit possible measures next month.

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A banner depicting an European Union flag is reflected in a window outside the EU Council headquarters in Brussels, Belgium March 18, 2025. REUTERS/Yves Herman/ File Photo
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Overview

  • The European Council called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages to end hostilities.
  • A European External Action Service report found indications that Israel was breaching its human rights obligations under the 2000 EU-Israel Association Agreement.
  • The EU is Israel’s largest trading partner, with goods trade worth $50 billion annually, complicating any move to suspend the pact.
  • Spain and Ireland pushed to fully suspend the agreement but were outnumbered by Germany, Hungary and other member states.
  • Ministers postponed discussions on follow-up measures, deferring any decision on sanctions or a partial suspension until next month.