Speaking at a press conference, Kallas said that although “many” EU countries had proposed restrictive economic measures, “no consensus was reached” on the issue. She did not specify which countries opposed, but according to reports, Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic were among those against the move.
Far-right minister Ben-Gvir has been criticised by several EU member states over his treatment of activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, who were detained by Israeli soldiers while trying to reach the Gaza Strip last month. A widely circulated video shows Ben-Gvir taunting the activists as they knelt on the floor with their hands tied behind their backs.
The international outcry prompted several countries, including Italy — a longstanding ally of Israel — to seek restrictive measures against Ben-Gvir. Italy has opened an investigation into allegations of kidnapping and torture involving Italian citizens among the activists. French prosecutors have also launched an inquiry into suspected war crimes and torture.
Additionally, Kallas said many member states called on the European Commission to prepare options on how to curb trade with illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. She said: “I will pass on this request and suggest that the Commission prepare, before the next Foreign Affairs Council, a list of options for possible trade measures, including measures to prevent the import of goods originating from illegal settlements.”
Last month, the EU for the first time imposed economic restrictions on violent settlers involved in human rights abuses in the West Bank. The EU is Israel’s largest trading partner, accounting for more than 30% of Israel’s total trade in goods with the world.
