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European nations are considering measures against Israel if it does not end the Gaza blockadeIn a recent move, Britain has decided to suspend free trade negotiations with Israel, considered as its toughest stance since the war in Gaza began in 2023.
Netanyahu responded with anger as France renewed its commitment to recognise the Palestinian state, with Canada also condemning Israel’s aggressive military offensive and blockade of aid in Gaza.
The EU has also ordered to review of its cooperation deal with Israel.The Belgian foreign minister, Maxime Prevot said that he had “no doubt” that Israel was violating rights in Gaza. Hungary has separately opposed additional sanctions against Israeli settlers in the West Bank.The British foreign secretary David Lammy commented, “The world is judging, history will judge them. Blocking aid, expanding the war, dismissing the concerns of your friends and partners. This is indefensible and it must stop”.The UK government is also set to impose new sanctions on individuals as well as organistaions involved in occupying the West Bank. It has announced financial and travel restrictions targeting prominent settler leader Daniella Weiss.
The UK has also sought to impose restrictions on two outposts and two illegal organizations that are accused of supporting aggression in Palestine.French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot has reaffirmed France’s stance on recognising a Palestinian State, stating that the children of Gaza cannot be left with a legacy of hatred and violence.UK, France, and Canada have jointly threatened “concrete actions” if Israel continues to block the entry of aid into the war-battered Gaza Strip.As Israel resumed an aggressive military offensive in Gaza, 17 EU states have pushed for a review of an article under the EU-Israel agreement, which calls for safeguarding human rights. The EU-Israel agreement forms the basis of trade ties. In retaliation Israeli government said, “external pressure will not divert Israel from its path in defending its existence and security against enemies who seek its destruction.”
Israeli foreign ministry spokesman Oren Marmorstein stated that it was the UK’s “own prerogative” if the British government wants to sabotage its own economy. However, on October 7, the UK had accused Hamas militants of committing a “heinous attack” and also backed Israel’s right to defend itself. The free trade negotiations between Israel and UK began in 2022. After completely cutting off aid supply more than 2 months ago, Israel is finally allowing a modicum of food and medicine supply into the Gaza Strip. This comes amid Gazans battling with the worst humanitarian crisis in 19 months of war with Israel.Despite increasing international condemnation, in a fresh offensive, Israeli strikes have killed at least 60, targeting a family home and a school turned shelter in Northern Gaza.
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