The European Parliament has backed calls for EU sanctions Israel over the war in Gaza. Lawmakers urged restrictions on trade ties and sanctions on two far-right Israeli ministers. The resolution supported European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s proposal. However, divisions among the EU’s 27 members make approval difficult. The non-binding vote reflected growing frustration with Israel’s actions.
The resolution endorsed suspending bilateral support to Israel and partially freezing the EU-Israel trade agreement. Lawmakers also called for sanctions on Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Critics say the EU has failed to act strongly during the Gaza conflict. While the Commission pushed the measures, final approval rests with member states. The outcome remains uncertain given political differences.
Meanwhile, press freedom groups condemned Israel for blocking access to Gaza. The Foreign Press Association said the ban on foreign media is a “shame.” The group noted Israel’s supreme court has repeatedly delayed hearings on petitions for access. It accused Israel of targeting Palestinian journalists, with at least 200 killed since the war began. The FPA also said Israeli strikes destroyed areas where journalists gathered.
The group stressed that Palestinian reporters continue to work despite constant danger. Many face hunger, displacement, and direct attacks. Recent strikes on a hospital killed more than 20 people, including five journalists. The association accused Israel of trying to discredit Palestinian and foreign media. It warned that blocking coverage violates basic press freedoms. Calls for accountability are growing louder internationally.
On the ground, Palestinians face a new crisis. The Israeli military dropped leaflets warning of troop advances in Gaza City’s Al-Naser area. Families must decide whether to stay or flee despite scarce food and safety elsewhere. Strikes on Thursday killed 34 people across Gaza, including seven searching for food. With warnings of more ground operations, fear and exhaustion spread. The EU sanctions Israel debate now collides with the worsening humanitarian toll.