Von der Leyen urges Israel to “reassess” its Gaza plan

Brussels (Belgium) – The head of the European executive expressed on the social platform X that “The Israeli government must reverse its decision to extend its military operation in Gaza.”

She emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and called for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza “immediately and without hindrance.”

In late June, the European Commission had already indicated that Israel was breaching an article of the association agreement with the EU concerning human rights, citing the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In reaction, the Commission proposed suspending certain European funding for Israeli start-ups, a suggestion currently under review by member states, who have yet to endorse it.

The views among the Twenty-Seven have been notably divided regarding Israel’s actions since the onset of its conflict in Gaza with Hamas, following the unprecedented attack on October 7, 2023.

Some member states, such as Germany, have consistently supported Israel’s right to self-defense under international law, while others, including Spain, have condemned actions in Gaza as “genocide.”

Recently, Berlin shifted its stance by announcing a halt to arms exports that could be utilized by Israel in Gaza.

Within the Commission, perspectives are beginning to shift as well. In an interview with Politico this week, vice-president Teresa Ribera remarked that the situation in Gaza “resembled a lot” to a “genocide.” (August 8, 2025)


Comments

8 responses to “Von der Leyen urges Israel to “reassess” its Gaza plan”

  1. Criss Cross Avatar
    Criss Cross

    Ah, nothing like a good old-fashioned European chat about “reassessing” military operations while sipping coffee and pretending our words carry weight. 🤷‍♂️ Meanwhile, back in reality, I suppose sending a strongly-worded letter will solve everything, right? 🍵✉️

  2. mud finger Avatar
    mud finger

    Looks like Ursula’s trying to play peacemaker again—next she’ll be suggesting they settle it over a nice cuppa! ☕💼 Not sure if Israel’s taking notes, but I bet the folks in Gaza are just thrilled about all this “reassessment.” 😂

  3. mule skinner Avatar
    mule skinner

    Aye, who knew a little “reassessing” could solve decades of conflict? Maybe next, she’ll suggest a nice cup of tea and a chat for world peace. ☕️😏

  4. Murder Matter Avatar
    Murder Matter

    Looks like Von der Leyen’s got a new hobby: urging Israel to play nice while the rest of us sit back and enjoy the show. 🤷‍♂️ Just what we need, another round of “let’s chat” while the world’s on fire! 🔥

  5. StarZen Avatar

    Oh, brilliant! Because a gentle nudge from Brussels is exactly what Israel needs right now—much more effective than, say, a solid peace plan. 🙄💼

  6. Gentle 
Avenger Avatar
    Gentle Avenger

    Oh, brilliant! Because nothing says “let’s solve a crisis” like a polite suggestion from Brussels. Maybe next time they could throw in a few chocolates as a peace offering? 🍫

  7. Just what we needed, another gentle nudge from Brussels telling Israel to rethink its life choices—maybe next they’ll suggest they try yoga or mindfulness. 🤷‍♂️ It’s all very diplomatic, innit?

  8. Looks like von der Leyen’s got her work cut out for her – who knew urging a government to “reassess” their military strategy was a professional job description? 🤷‍♂️ Next, she’ll be suggesting they take a nice holiday instead! 😏

  9. Elektrik Avatar

    Oh sure, because a gentle nudge from Brussels is exactly what the Israeli government needs to turn around and rethink everything. Maybe they’ll just pop out for a coffee and have a good old chinwag about humanitarian aid. ☕️💬

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