Sweden Proposes Freezing EU Trade with Israel Amid Gaza Crisis
The Swedish government has proposed freezing EU trade with Israel to pressure for humanitarian aid in Gaza.
Key Points
- • Sweden calls for EU to freeze trade agreement with Israel for humanitarian aid pressure.
- • Prime Minister Kristersson states Israel is failing its aid obligations.
- • Substantial Swedish aid stockpiles near Gaza are restricted by Israel.
- • Foreign Minister Stenergard seeks sanctions against extremist Israeli ministers.
On July 31, 2025, the Swedish government officially called for the European Union to freeze its trade agreement with Israel as a strategic move to increase pressure for humanitarian aid to Gaza. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed that Israel has not fulfilled its obligations regarding aid deliveries, emphasizing, "The economic pressure on Israel must increase." He similarly called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas and acknowledged the position of neighboring Middle Eastern countries advocating for Hamas's disarmament in future governance plans for Gaza.
Biståndsminister Benjamin Dousa underscored the critical situation in Gaza, noting that substantial Swedish aid stockpiles are currently impeded from entering due to restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities. He affirmed the intention of the Swedish government to bolster its efforts against Israel by freezing the trade agreement. Reports indicate that about 28% of Israel's exports are directed to the EU, which means any changes to trade agreements would necessitate a qualified majority vote within the union.
In addition, Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard communicated a request to the EU Commission for a sanctions list targeting extremist Israeli ministers, while asserting that pressure on Hamas also needs to be elevated. She stated unequivocally, "Hamas bears a very heavy responsibility for the situation in Gaza."
Experts suggest that Sweden's current stance marks a notable shift from previous diplomatic approaches, transitioning from ambiguous statements to actionable policies against Israel. Middle East analyst Alexander Atarodi mentioned that while the immediate impact on Israel's behavior might be limited, Sweden's position could significantly influence the EU, Israel's largest trading partner, and its ability to impose further sanctions.