EU President Ursula von der Leyen announced the suspension of bilateral support to Israel and partial suspension of trade aspects within their association agreement, citing the unacceptable situation in Gaza. This follows a Hamas attack and subsequent Israeli offensive resulting in significant civilian casualties. Von der Leyen condemned the "man-made famine" in Gaza and Israel's undermining of the two-state solution. While acknowledging difficulty achieving consensus within the EU, she called for sanctions against extremist Israeli ministers and settlers, a move facing potential resistance from some member states.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.