STRASBOURG – European Union lawmakers today voted in favor of a non-binding resolution calling for sanctions on two Israeli ministers and the partial suspension of the EU-Israel trade agreement. The move follows a proposal by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and reflects growing concern among some European officials over the continued conflict in Gaza.
The resolution specifically calls for sanctions on Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, labeling them as “extremist.” While the resolution is non-binding, it signals a shift in sentiment within the European Parliament, which has faced increasing criticism for not taking stronger action. However, implementing such measures will be challenging due to deep divisions among the 27 EU member states.
Foreign Press Association Condemns Denial of Access
In a separate development, the Foreign Press Association (FPA) issued a strong condemnation of Israel for its continued denial of independent access to foreign journalists in Gaza. The association, with over 350 members, called the ongoing institutionalized delay in access a “mark of shame on Israel and its allies.”
The FPA highlighted that Palestinian journalists operating inside Gaza have been directly targeted, with at least 200 of them killed by Israeli fire. The association also noted that despite the immense dangers—including violence, hunger, and displacement—Palestinian journalists continue to inform the world. The FPA further criticized Israeli leaders and the military for their efforts to discredit the work of both Palestinian and foreign journalists.
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New Dilemma for Palestinian Civilians
Meanwhile, the Israeli military dropped leaflets in the Al-Naser area of Gaza City, warning residents that troops would soon advance to take control of the western neighborhood. This action has created a new dilemma for the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians living there, forcing them to choose between staying in an area under imminent threat or fleeing to other parts of Gaza that are already overcrowded and facing severe shortages of safety, space, and food.
Residents were seen loading their belongings onto trucks and preparing to flee, with one father stating, “Our life revolves around war… We can’t take it anymore, we are tired.” According to medics and local health authorities, Israeli strikes killed 34 people across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, with seven of those killed while searching for food.
The ongoing situation continues to highlight the humanitarian crisis and the complex political landscape, with international bodies and watchdogs urging for de-escalation, respect for international law, and the protection of civilians and journalists.
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