EU warns Israel's UNRWA ban could threaten key trade deal

The European Council President warned that Israel's recent ban on the U.N. aid agency UNRWA could jeopardize a key trade deal with the EU. This law, passed on Monday, raises concerns about aid in Gaza amid ongoing conflict. Charles Michel stated that the ban is "not acceptable" and could lead to consequences for Israel from the EU. He noted increasing discussions within the EU about reviewing the Association Agreement with Israel, which governs trade relations. The Association Agreement, effective since 2000, is crucial for trade between Israel and the EU. The EU accounted for nearly 29% of Israel's trade in goods in 2022, making it Israel's largest trading partner.