Divisions in the EU regarding trade with illegal Israeli settlements

The European Commission is facing pressure from member states such as Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain, which want strict measures against trade with illegal Israeli settlements. This initiative, supported by the EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, aims to build a majority that will compel the Commission to propose trade restrictions.

The dispute has generated divisions between EU institutions and national capitals, with the Commission and countries like Germany and the Czech Republic opposing the measures.

Although trade with illegal settlements accounts for only 0.5% of total EU trade with Israel, the issue has become central in discussions among foreign ministers.

The Commission has rejected previous proposals, and Kallas has called for new measures, generating a conflict with the Israeli foreign minister.

Critics of Ursula von der Leyen accuse her of avoiding actions ahead of the elections in Israel, fearing domestic political backlash.