The European Council has recently taken a significant step by imposing sanctions on three entities associated with Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. These sanctions come in response to their involvement in the brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks that took place in Israel on October 7.
The entities that have been targeted by these sanctions include:
- Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad
- Nukhba Force, a special forces unit of Hamas
- Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas
As a result of the sanctions, these entities are now subjected to an asset freeze and a travel ban to the European Union. Additionally, any provision of funds to them, whether directly or indirectly, is strictly prohibited.
The decision to impose these sanctions was welcomed by Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs Israel Katz, who emphasized that it sends a clear message that those who commit heinous acts of violence will face consequences for their actions.
Earlier this year, a United Nations team uncovered disturbing information regarding sexual abuse of hostages in Gaza, with indications that such violence is ongoing. This further underscores the need for decisive actions against groups involved in such atrocities.