Budapest blocks European sanctions against Israeli residents of Judea and Samaria

Hungary blocked a European Union decision on Monday to impose sanctions on Israeli residents deemed “violent” during a meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels dedicated to the situation in Judea and Samaria (the 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 limits of the European decision-making process, which requires unanimity on foreign policy matters. “When one blocks, we do not do what the majority wants, but what this one country wants,” she added.

Hungary, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is considered one of Israel’s closest allies within the European Union.

During the meeting, ministers also discussed recent measures adopted by the Israeli government regarding land registration and property acquisition procedures in Area C of Judea and Samaria.

The European Union expressed “deep 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 as reinforcing Israeli control in Areas A and B.

Brussels called on Israel to reverse its decision, reminding that any annexation would be contrary to international law.