Copenhagen, Aug. 17, 2025
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has sharply criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing him as a “problem” in the ongoing Gaza conflict. Frederiksen, whose country currently holds the European Union (EU) presidency, said Denmark would push for stronger pressure on Israel amid mounting concerns over the humanitarian crisis.
“Netanyahu is now a problem in himself,” Frederiksen said in an interview with Danish daily Jyllands-Posten, accusing the Israeli government of going “too far.” She condemned the “absolutely appalling and catastrophic” situation in Gaza as well as Israel’s new settlement projects in the occupied West Bank.
The Danish leader revealed that her government is exploring a range of measures, including political pressure and possible 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. Potential actions could include sanctions against Israeli settlers, ministers, or even broader restrictions on trade and research cooperation.
However, she acknowledged that Denmark has not yet secured the support of other EU member states for stronger measures.
While reiterating that Denmark does not currently recognise a Palestinian state, Frederiksen emphasised that her government wants to “increase pressure on Israel” to address the crisis.
Israel’s military offensive in Gaza has so far claimed the lives of more than 61,430 Palestinians, the majority of them civilians, according to reports from the region.
