The European Commission has introduced a series of proposed tariffs and sanctions aimed at pressuring Israel to cease its military actions in Gaza. Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign policy chief, urged the 27 member states to increase tariffs on certain Israeli goods and impose sanctions on ten Hamas leaders, as well as Israeli officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

The proposed sanctions would freeze the European assets of these individuals and prohibit them from traveling within the EU. If a sufficient number of EU nations agree, tariffs totaling approximately €230 million ($407 million) could be applied to 37 percent of the €15.9 billion worth of Israeli goods imported into the EU, according to European Commissioner for Trade Maroš Šefčovič. The commission is also suggesting the revocation of the zero-tariff preference for certain imported Israeli goods, reverting to World Trade Organization tariffs that range from 8 percent to 40 percent.

"We're not proposing to suspend trade with Israel; we are proposing to suspend trade preferences," stated a senior European official who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to commission policy.

As the Israeli military intensifies its operations in Gaza City, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. The Hamas-run Gaza health authority reported that the death toll in the enclave has surpassed 65,000 since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas-led attack on Israel. Kallas emphasized that the proposed measures are intended to pressure the Israeli government to alter its course and alleviate the suffering in Gaza. "The war needs to end, the suffering must stop, and all hostages must be released," she said.

The commission also expressed support for the Palestinian Authority amid the ongoing conflict. Israel has denied allegations of starvation in Gaza, asserting that it permits sufficient humanitarian aid to enter the region. A recent UN report has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, marking a significant escalation in the international discourse surrounding the conflict.

As the EU is Israel's largest trading partner, the proposed tariffs could have significant implications for Israel's economy, which is already under strain due to the prolonged conflict. Additionally, around €32 million ($56.7 million) in bilateral funds managed by the European Commission would be suspended immediately if the measures are enacted.

In response to the EU's proposals, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar sent a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, asserting that Israel would resist the European campaign. "Pressure through sanctions will not work. The State of Israel is a proud sovereign nation, and we will not be bent through threats while Israel's security is at stake," he wrote.

The EU remains divided over the issue, and it is uncertain whether a majority of member states will support the proposed sanctions and trade measures. The ongoing violence in Gaza has sparked protests in various European cities, reflecting the contentious nature of the conflict.