Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, has openly criticized Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu, describing him as “a problem” amid growing concerns over the war in Gaza.

Speaking in an interview with Denmark’s Jyllands-Posten newspaper on Saturday, Frederiksen said the Israeli government has “gone too far,” pointing to both the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and Israel’s controversial plans for new settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Frederiksen, whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, said Copenhagen is prepared to push for stronger measures against Israel but is still seeking consensus among other EU member states.

“We are exploring political and economic pressure, including sanctions that could be aimed at individual settlers, members of government, or even Israel more broadly,” she explained, noting that options such as restrictions on trade or research cooperation are on the table. “Nothing is being ruled out. As with Russia, we want sanctions that strike where they are most effective.”

The Danish leader emphasized that her government has not yet joined those European countries recognizing Palestinian statehood but stressed that the situation on the ground demands stronger international action.

The conflict reignited following Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians. Israel’s military response, now in its 22nd month, has led to more than 61,000 Palestinian deaths, according to figures released by Gaza’s health ministry, which the United Nations considers credible.

Frederiksen condemned the mounting civilian toll and called the humanitarian conditions in Gaza “catastrophic.” She warned that Netanyahu’s leadership has itself become a stumbling block to peace and stability in the region.