Efforts by Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia to push the European Union to take action against Israel over alleged human rights violations fell short once again, as EU foreign ministers failed to reach a consensus following a meeting in Brussels. No decision was made to suspend or alter the 1995 Association Agreement between Israel and the EU.

Despite proposals raised by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas—including a partial or full suspension of the agreement; individual sanctions targeting Israeli ministers, military officials or extremist settlers; arms embargoes; trade-related measures; and freezing scientific cooperation such as participation in the Horizon Europe research program—none received the required support from EU member states.

Kallas said afterward that “Israel needs to take more concrete steps to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza,” warning that “all options remain on the table” if Israel fails to meet its obligations.

The outcome marked a significant setback for Spain, Ireland and Slovenia, which have been leading anti-Israel efforts within the bloc.