Paris, – France has announced renewed efforts within the European Union to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers involved in violence in the occupied West Bank.
This move comes as France indicated a decision could be reached in the coming days, according to France 24.
French move within the European Union
France Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that his country is working to advance the European sanctions process,
which has been stalled for a long time due to objections from one of the member states.
He also indicated that this impasse could be overcome soon and a European agreement reached on the matter.
Barrot explained that Paris is also seeking to pressure the Israeli government to change its policies,
particularly regarding the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank.
In addition, it is working to allow the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.
Violence escalates in the West Bank
The France Foreign Minister noted a marked escalation in violence in the occupied West Bank recently.
He accused extremist settlers of being responsible for attacks targeting Palestinians,
amid ongoing regional tensions linked to the war in the Middle East.
At the same time, Paris reaffirmed its commitment to Israel’s security.
However, it stressed that the continuation of the current situation
without a change in Israeli policies could lead to further European measures in the coming period.
