Calls for intensified EU measures against Israeli actions have gained traction within the German parliament, with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) parliamentary group’s spokesperson for foreign affairs, Adis Ahmetovic, backing proposals by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Speaking to the news portal T-Online on Wednesday, Ahmetovic emphasized the need for Germany and Europe to take their roles as mediators and advocates for de-escalation and peace seriously. He urged the German government to thoroughly review von der Leyen’s suggested measures. The stated objective is to achieve a unified European approach centered on diplomacy, human rights and the two-state solution.
Von der Leyen, in her address on the State of the Union on Wednesday, announced plans for stricter sanctions against Israel in response to its actions in Gaza. The proposals include sanctions targeting “extremist ministers and violent settlers” and a partial suspension of the association agreement in the area of trade. Additionally, she indicated a suspension of bilateral support for Israel and a halt to all corresponding payments from the Commission to Israel.
Ahmetovic described the situation in Gaza, the West Bank and across the region as “worrying”. He called for a swift end to the conflict in Gaza to alleviate the dramatic humanitarian suffering of the Palestinian civilian population and secure the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas. The politician also strongly criticized a recent Israeli attack in Doha, asserting that international law must be universally upheld and the territorial integrity of sovereign states must not be violated.
