The European Union proposed its strongest measures yet to pressure Israel to end the Gaza war. The plan includes increased tariffs on Israeli goods, sanctions on Israeli officials (including Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich), and the freezing of EU assets and travel bans for 10 Hamas leaders. The EU, Israel's largest trading partner, aims to leverage economic pressure to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While the EU cites human rights violations as justification, Israel's foreign minister vehemently opposes the sanctions, asserting that Israel won't be pressured while its security is at stake. The proposal's success hinges on securing the support of a majority of EU member states.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.