Sweden Leads EU Charge for Transparency in Trade with Israeli Settlements
Sweden and eight EU states call for clearer trade policies on Israeli settlements.
Key Points
- • Sweden and eight EU states demand EU regulation on trade linked to Israeli settlements.
- • The countries emphasize adherence to international law and UN principles.
- • They reference the International Court of Justice's ruling on the illegality of Israel's occupation.
- • The letter critiques the EU Commission for inaction on the issue.
On June 19, 2025, Sweden joined eight other EU member states in advocating for increased transparency and regulation of trade linked to illegal Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. This move involves a formal letter sent to the European Commission emphasizing the need for adherence to international law and UN principles. The letter, which includes signatures from Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain, articulates concerns about the EU's inaction regarding this issue.
These countries highlight the International Court of Justice's ruling that categorically deems Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories as illegal. They express a strong commitment to international law, stating, "We write this letter to reiterate our commitment to international law and respect for the principles of the UN Charter." The collective effort aims to press the European Commission to take concrete steps to terminate trade in goods and services associated with these settlements, underscoring the perceived ethical and legal implications of continued trade in this context.
Despite previous discussions indicating that the issue would be addressed, the letter points out a significant lack of initiative from the EU Commission to engage on this pressing matter. This push from Sweden and its allies marks a crucial stance in the ongoing dialogue surrounding EU trade policies related to the Israel-Palestine conflict.