Brussels: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas says that sanctions on violent Israeli settlers are on the agenda of the bloc's Foreign Affairs Council and voiced hope that European diplomats can finally reach a political agreement on the long-discussed measure. Speaking before the meeting in Brussels on Monday, Kallas said the issue has been under discussion for a long time.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Kallas noted that when ambassadors reviewed it on Friday, there did not appear to be enough support to approve certain steps. Still, she said the EU would also examine a French and Swedish proposal concerning part of the trade linked to settlements, though that idea would require a formal proposal from the European Commission, which has not yet been submitted.

Kallas stressed that the key question is what further action the EU can take, adding that she hoped member states would agree on a political path forward. The foreign ministers are also set to discuss broader Middle East issues, including freedom of navigation, Operation Aspides, and possible changes to the mission's operational plans. Kallas said some proposals would require unanimous backing or a qualified majority, which is still lacking in certain areas.

She also said the EU will hold a high-level political dialogue with Syria's foreign minister, focusing on camp conditions, rebuilding state institutions, drafting a constitution, and establishing laws for elections. EU support depends on inclusive governance that protects all minorities, she added.

On Ukraine, Kallas said the EU would discuss tougher sanctions on Russia. She dismissed Moscow's reported suggestion to use former German chancellor as a European negotiator, calling it unwise.