The European Commission proposed a package of measures on Wednesday that would suspend some of Israel’s preferential trade access to the European Union and sanction two Israeli government ministers, escalating pressure over the war in Gaza.
The proposal would affect preferential treatment for a portion of Israeli goods entering the EU. The Commission also proposed sanctions against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, as well as several individuals and entities it links to extremist activity.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had signaled the move earlier in September, arguing that the humanitarian situation in Gaza required a stronger European response. The proposal now faces a difficult political path because EU member states remain divided over measures targeting Israel.
Israel has rejected European pressure over its conduct of the war and has argued that punitive measures risk rewarding Hamas. Supporters of the Commission’s proposal say the EU should use the economic and diplomatic tools available to it to press for greater humanitarian access and adherence to international law.
The measures are proposals rather than final EU policy. Different elements require approval from member states under the bloc’s decision-making rules, making the eventual scope and timing uncertain.
Sources: Reuters and Associated Press reporting, Sept. 16, 2026.
