European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged the European Union to suspend its free-trade agreement with Israel in response to the “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Speaking to the European Parliament on Wednesday, von der Leyen emphasized that the EU “cannot afford to be paralysed” as Israel continues its relentless military campaign, which has killed over 64,000 civilians, including 20,000 children, since October 2023, according to UN and Gaza health ministry reports.

Von der Leyen proposed suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement, in place since 2000, which facilitates tariff-free trade valued at €46 billion in 2024. Pro-Palestinian activists have long demanded such action to pressure Israel to end its blockade and bombardment of Gaza, which the International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) classified as genocide on September 1, 2025. The IAGS cited Israel’s deliberate targeting of civilians, destruction of hospitals and aid infrastructure, and enforced starvation policies as evidence of genocidal intent.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unprecedented. Nearly 1.9 million Palestinians, about 90% of the population, are internally displaced, with entire neighborhoods leveled. The UN reports 1.2 million people face acute food insecurity, with famine declared in northern Gaza since June 2025. Since May, Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 1,850 Palestinians at aid distribution sites, including a September 3 attack that claimed 70 civilian lives, according to Al Jazeera. Humanitarian access is severely restricted, with only 12% of essential aid reaching Gaza in August 2025, per UN data. Amnesty International has documented the use of U.S.-supplied white phosphorus in densely populated areas, further exacerbating civilian suffering.

Despite von der Leyen’s strong call for accountability, a limited proposal to suspend Israel’s access to the EU Horizon research program, which funds Israeli tech start-ups with €95.5 billion through 2027, has stalled. Germany, Italy, Hungary, and other member states oppose the measure, citing economic and strategic concerns. Activists argue that continued cooperation undermines the EU’s stated commitment to human rights.

Von der Leyen stressed: “The images of starvation, destruction, and loss of life in Gaza demand a response. The EU must use every lever at its disposal to uphold international law and protect human dignity.” Her stance has gained support from Ireland, Spain, and Belgium, but faces opposition from pro-Israel EU countries requiring unanimous approval to act.

Pro-Palestinian organizations welcomed the proposal. A spokesperson for the European Campaign for Palestinian Rights stated, “Suspending the trade agreement is a critical step to hold Israel accountable for its genocide in Gaza. The EU cannot continue business as usual while Palestinians are starved and bombed.” Social media activity reflects growing public support, with hashtags like #SuspendIsraelTrade trending across Europe.

Meanwhile, Israel has condemned the initiative, claiming it “rewards terrorism” and ignores Hamas’s role. The debate follows recent international scrutiny, including ICC arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes, further isolating Israel diplomatically. The U.S. continues to provide $3.8 billion in military aid annually, fueling tensions over Western alignment on the Gaza crisis.

As the death toll rises and humanitarian conditions worsen, von der Leyen’s proposal represents a potential turning point in Europe’s approach to Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza. Advocates argue decisive action is essential to end decades of occupation, uphold international law, and save countless Palestinian lives. (ILKHA)