Jürgen Hardt, the foreign policy spokesperson for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, is calling for EU sanctions against Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. This demand comes in response to Ben-Gvir’s remarks regarding the targeted killing of Palestinians, which are framed within the context of extremist statements made by the leader of the ultranationalist Israeli party Ozma Jehudit.
Hardt told the news magazine Politico that “anyone can condemn Ben-Gvir’s inhuman remarks. The EU should sanction him as a sign of the global recognition of human dignity and human rights.” Ben-Gvir had specified in a podcast that targeted killings should be carried out in Gaza, naming a daily casualty target of 30 to 40 people during discussions about the post-war order in the Strip.
Beyond calling for sanctions, Hardt questioned Ben-Gvir’s fitness for governmental office. Looking ahead to the Israeli elections on October 27, he expressed hope that the next Israeli administration would be formed without Ben-Gvir and the equally right-wing finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich.
“All top candidates from parties running for the Knesset have demonstrated in their previous careers-as prime ministers, generals, or parliamentarians-that they could provide much greater security for Israel than the current Minister of National Security, Ben-Gvir,” Hardt stated. He added, “I am confident that an Israeli cabinet without Ben-Gvir or Smotrich will bring Europe and Israel closer again. The CDU/CSU is prepared for this and stands by Israel and peace in the region.”
