Germany calls for EU action against Israeli minister over 'unacceptable' remarks

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has urged a unified European Union response to Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Wadephul described Ben-Gvir's recent statements, which called for the "targeted elimination" of Palestinians in Gaza, as "unspeakable" and "completely unacceptable."

Speaking during a visit to Switzerland, Wadephul stated that the EU level is the "right framework" for potential action against the Israeli minister. He noted that this is not the first time Ben-Gvir or other Israeli cabinet members have made such remarks. The minister indicated that upcoming discussions would determine the concrete consequences of these "inhumane outbursts."

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The statements by Mr. Ben-Gvir are unspeakable, they are completely unacceptable.

The EU foreign ministers are scheduled to discuss possible sanctions against Ben-Gvir at their informal meeting in early September in Ireland. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas is expected to present new proposals. Ben-Gvir's comments, made in a podcast, have caused international outrage, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres's spokesperson calling them "dehumanizing and dangerous."

Discussions about sanctions against Ben-Gvir have been ongoing at the EU level for years. Such measures could include travel bans and asset freezes in Europe. However, a unanimous decision by all EU member states is necessary for implementation. Previously, the Czech Republic had notably opposed placing Ben-Gvir on the EU sanctions list. Some individual member states, including Ireland, France, Spain, and Slovenia, have already imposed their own entry bans.

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They are dehumanizing and dangerous. And we condemn them unequivocally.