The European Union will deliberate on suspending its 1995 Association Agreement with Israel after the Netherlands secured majority support for a formal review, citing the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The review comes despite the recent entry of 93 aid trucks via Kerem Shalom, which EU officials described as “a drop in the ocean.”

Deputy EU Commissioner Kaja Kallas emphasized that the move is not final. “It’s reversible,” she said, stressing it depends on whether Israel permits sustained humanitarian access to Gaza. The review gained backing from 17 EU countries, with 9 opposing it.

Mounting International Pressure

Israeli diplomats fear growing isolation. A senior official warned Ynet, “This is worse than a catastrophe. We are seeing a real diplomatic tsunami.” He added, “The world sees nothing but dead Palestinian children and demolished homes since November 2023. Israel offers no plan for the day after—just destruction.”

Parallel discussions about sanctions against Israeli ministers and settlers were proposed, reportedly by Sweden, but were blocked by another EU member.

The EU's move follows escalating global criticism of Israel’s handling of the war in Gaza. Since late 2023, multiple nations—including Spain and Sweden—have urged punitive action, citing disproportionate civilian harm. While aid access has resumed in small numbers, many EU leaders argue it’s insufficient to avert famine and systemic collapse in the enclave.