The EU's foreign ministers approved new sanctions against Israeli settlers due to increased violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, particularly since the Gaza war began in October 2023. The sanctions target key Israeli organizations and individuals involved in settlement activities, which are deemed illegal under international law. Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, criticized the sanctions as arbitrary and politically motivated, asserting Israel's right to settle in the region. The EU is also considering banning products from Israeli settlements, although consensus has not yet been reached.