EU seeks to advance trade ban on Israeli settlements

The European Union is considering a trade ban on Israeli settlements in the West Bank, with foreign ministers debating various tactics at their monthly council meeting in Brussels. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that "The option that got the most support was banning the trade with illegal settlements." All 27 member states view these settlements as violations of international law. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar accused Kallas of an "obsessive campaign against Israel," asserting there was no consensus or majority for such a ban. While no decisions have been made, the path forward is uncertain, with legal opinions differing on whether a qualified majority or unanimity is required for such a measure.