EU Contemplates Sanctions on Israeli Ministers Over Hate Messages

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, has proposed sanctions against certain Israeli ministers for allegedly sending hate messages against Palestinians, which he claims breach international law. Although he did not specify which ministers or messages, he has previously criticized Security Minister Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Smotrich. Ireland supports Borrell's suggestion.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, announced on Thursday that he has asked EU member states to consider imposing sanctions on certain Israeli ministers for allegedly disseminating hate messages against Palestinians. Borrell claims these messages violate international law.

Although Borrell did not name specific ministers or detail the messages in question, he has recently criticized Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for remarks he described as 'sinister' and 'an incitement to war crimes.'

Borrell's proposal highlights the frustration among European officials over the Israeli ministers' statements. However, diplomats note that achieving unanimous agreement among the EU's 27 member states for such sanctions is unlikely. Ireland has expressed support for Borrell's recommendation, particularly against settler organizations in the West Bank.

(With inputs from agencies.)