Copenhagen: Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Saturday referred to ‘Israeli’ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a “problem,” indicating that Denmark will seek to increase pressure on ‘Israel’ during its tenure holding the European Union presidency.
Her remarks come amid growing international criticism of ‘Israel’s’ ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have drawn concern from European leaders over humanitarian consequences and the need for de-escalation.
Mette Frederiksen’s comments underscore a tougher stance from Denmark as it prepares to shape EU policy discussions on the conflict.
“Netanyahu is now a problem in himself,” Frederiksen told Jyllands-Posten, criticizing what she called the ‘Israeli’ government’s actions as “going too far.”
She pointed to the “absolutely appalling and catastrophic” humanitarian situation in Gaza, as well as new settlement projects in the occupied West Bank.
“We are one of the countries that wants to increase pressure on Israel, but we have not yet obtained the support of EU members,” she added, emphasizing that Copenhagen is exploring a range of measures.
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Mette Frederiksen said these could include political pressure, sanctions targeting settlers or ministers, or broader restrictions against ‘Israel’ itself, such as trade or research sanctions.
“We are not ruling anything out in advance. Just as with Russia, we are designing the sanctions to target where we believe they will have the greatest effect,” Frederiksen said.
Since October 7, 2023, ‘Israel’s’ assault on Gaza has killed more than 61,430 Palestinians, according to health authorities in the territory.