Hungary blocked a European Union decision on Monday to impose sanctions on Israeli residents described as “violent” during a meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels focusing on the situation in Judea and Samaria (West Bank).
According to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, 26 out of 27 member states supported the proposal. “Twenty-six countries want sanctions against violent settlers (…) and one does not,” she said at a press conference, referring to Hungary. She criticized the limitations of the EU decision-making process, which requires unanimity on foreign policy matters. “When one blocks, we do not follow the majority’s wishes, but what this single country wants,” she added.
Hungary, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is seen as one of Israel’s closest allies in the European Union.
During the meeting, ministers also discussed recent measures taken by the Israeli government regarding land registration and property acquisition procedures in Area C of Judea and Samaria.
The EU expressed “grave concern,” stating that these decisions constitute “a violation of international law” and undermine efforts towards a two-state solution.
A European spokesperson called the approval of the land registration process in Area C a “new escalation,” following other measures seen to strengthen Israeli control in Areas A and B.
Brussels urged Israel to reconsider its decision, emphasizing that any annexation would be contrary to international law.
