Brussels, 30 July 2025 (dpa/MIA) - Germany and several other EU countries are stalling a proposal to sanction Israel over its role in the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, diplomats told dpa.

During talks in Brussels among the bloc's permanent representatives, no agreement was reached on launching the formal decision-making process, as countries including Germany called for more analysis and time to assess the situation on the ground, according to diplomats.

Some delegations raised concerns that sanctions could jeopardize essential dialogue with Israeli authorities. According to EU rules, at least 15 of the 27 member states representing 65% of the EU population must back the proposal for it to move forward.

Germany and Italy are seen as pivotal players. All other large EU countries and a number of smaller ones have signalled openness to the idea of sanctions.

Diplomats said many delegations expressed support for the sanctions proposal as a way to increase pressure on Israeli authorities and help improve the situation on the ground in Gaza.

The European Commission on Monday recommended partially suspending Israel's participation in the Horizon Europe research funding programme, citing human rights and humanitarian law breaches in Gaza. The proposal points to thousands of civilian deaths and a surge in severe malnutrition, especially among children.

The EU Council's working group will now review technical aspects of the sanctions proposal. Diplomats warned the process could also face legal delays, as some member states question whether the measure can be adopted by qualified majority vote. 

Photo: MIA archive