France and Sweden push EU trade restrictions on Israeli settlement goods; Ireland plans ban by mid-July (euronews.com)

• France and Sweden submitted a joint EU proposal to increase tariffs and controls on goods from illegal Israeli settlements, citing 2024 ICJ opinion.
• French Trade Minister Forissier called the restrictions 'normal' under international law and expects a Commission proposal soon.
• Ireland plans to pass legislation banning imports from West Bank settlements by mid-July 2026; Netherlands working on a three-year ban.
• EU-wide measures face political hurdles: tariffs need qual. majority, full ban needs unanimity, currently insufficient support.

"French Trade Minister Nicolas Forissier said restricting trade with Israeli settlements is 'normal' under international law. France and Sweden submitted a joint proposal to the EU last month seeking higher tariffs and stricter controls on goods from settlements deemed illegal under international law, citing a 2024 ICJ advisory opinion. Forissier expressed confidence the European Commission would soon propose measures. Ireland's Foreign Minister Helen McEntee announced plans to pass legislation by mid-July banning imports from illegal settlements in the West Bank. The Netherlands is also working on a three-year ban. However, EU-level action faces hurdles: higher tariffs require qualified majority, a full ban needs unanimity, which is unlikely."