EU Chief to Propose Suspension of Trade Agreement with Israel

Brussels: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced her intention to propose a partial suspension of the Association Agreement with Israel, citing concerns over trade-related issues. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, in her annual address to the European Parliament, von der Leyen also revealed plans to propose sanctions on certain extremist ministers within the Israeli government. Her statement comes in the wake of events in Gaza that she described as having "shaken the conscience of the world," emphasizing that "man-made famine can never be a weapon of war" and urging for immediate action. Von der Leyen highlighted that EU aid to Gaza surpasses that of any other partner, but acknowledged the need for Europe to increase its efforts. She also mentioned plans for the European Commission to establish a donor group for the Palestinians and create a dedicated tool for the reconstruction of Gaza in the upcoming month.