Portugal urges EU to impose total ban on West Bank settlement imports

Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel told journalists in Brussels that a total prohibition of imports from the illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank is the only viable measure and that the EU must act without further delay. He emphasized that products made by settlers are illegal under international law and that a swift suspension of such imports is justified.

Rangel spoke as EU foreign ministers debated three options presented by the European Commission: a full import ban, the imposition of tariffs, or a licensing system requiring authorisation for settlement exports. He argued that a ban, decided by qualified majority under EU trade rules, is essential despite the small share – about 0.5% – of EU‑Israel trade involved.

He acknowledged differing views among member states but urged the Council to adopt the strongest action as soon as possible, stressing the symbolic and legal importance of the measure.