New EU Council President Prepares Problems for Israel
In Israel, the start of Ireland's presidency of the EU Council is viewed with concern, amid fears of increased political pressure from Brussels. Jerusalem believes Dublin may more actively promote initiatives directed against the Jewish…
Assessment
Israel's government is bracing for a more adversarial European Union as Ireland assumes the rotating presidency of the EU Council, viewing Dublin as a potential leader for anti-Israel initiatives. Upcoming discussions among EU foreign ministers could include concrete steps such as revoking trade benefits for settlements and imposing personal sanctions on a senior Israeli minister. The situation marks a shift in Brussels' posture, with sanctions against an Israeli official now reportedly on the table for the first time. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on whether other EU member states back Ireland's push.