BRUSSELS, September 17, 2025 (WAFA) - President of the European Council Antonio Costa welcomed the European Commission’s proposals on the suspension of certain trade provisions of the Association Agreement with Israel, and on sanctions against extremist ministers and violent settlers.

In a post on X, the President of the European Council stressed, “It is now for member states to decide.” 

He stressed that the purpose of these measures is to demonstrate that Europe cannot accept the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza and the West Bank, which have gone far beyond Israel’s legitimate right to self-defense.

The post read: “The situation in Gaza is catastrophic and unacceptable. An immediate ceasefire is urgent. Full humanitarian access must be re-established. The hostages have to be released unconditionally.”

In another post on X, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen stated that the Commission is proposing sanctions on extremist ministers and violent colonists, along with the suspension of trade concessions with Israel.

T.R.