Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia had called for suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, citing violations of human rights obligations. However, a full suspension requires unanimous support from all 27 member states, while a partial suspension of the trade pillar needs a qualified majority of at least 55% of member states representing 65% of the EU population. Germany and Italy opposed the suspension and did not change their stance, with Italy stating it would adopt a serious and balanced approach to avoid negative consequences for Israeli civilians.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said further discussions would take place, including a proposal by France and Sweden to impose tariffs on goods from Israeli settlements. She stressed that the EU cannot lose sight of Gaza and the West Bank. The EU review last summer found Israel in breach of human rights obligations due to its war on Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian aid, but Israel rejected the review, saying it is engaged in an existential struggle.
All EU countries except Hungary agree with sanctions on violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank, though Hungary's position may change after its elections. The governments of Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia described conditions in Gaza as unbearable and noted escalating violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. A spokesperson for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said there must be no de facto partial annexation of the West Bank.