The recent European Parliament elections have caused great upheaval in several major countries, reflecting a rise in the right-wing democratic tendencies of the population. While it is difficult to predict the exact impact on foreign and security policies at this stage, Europe may reassess various policy areas in line with the new political situation.
One of the most pressing foreign policy challenges is the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has escalated to disastrous proportions. Long-standing European efforts to mediate a political solution have not been effective. The new Parliament should consider reassessing traditional concepts and developing a more effective strategy. Outdated views may create unrealistic expectations among Palestinians and foster distrust among Israelis. The EU’s unbalanced policies are undermining the possibility of positively influencing the situation, exacerbating the conflict and increasing threats to European security.
European support for the Palestinians with the aim of promoting peace with Israel is commendable. Financial investments from the international community, especially the EU, have exceeded €100 billion. However, these investments have not improved the situation of the Palestinians. Rather, the existence of refugee camps and continued reliance on international aid perpetuates poverty and dependency.
Europe has supported a two-state solution for over a century, since the British Mandate in 1917. Despite numerous conflicts, negotiations and Israeli withdrawal, peace has yet to come. The approach of “land for peace”, dismantling settlements and returning to pre-1967 borders ignores the ideological and religious roots of the conflict. Moreover, territorial concessions such as Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza have not led to peace.
This article assesses the EU’s strategy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the conflict’s impact on European security, and the effectiveness of its economic and political initiatives. It also considers future steps that European leadership can take to improve regional and European outcomes.
A European paradigm on conflict and its consequences – The EU strategy is rooted in long-standing beliefs and values ​​aimed at promoting peace and security between conflicting parties. Its main components are:
A two-state solution based on “land and peace”
The EU supports a two-state solution based on the principle of “land and peace,” which aims to achieve peace through the creation of a Palestinian state alongside Israel. This goal includes a political arrangement and ongoing negotiations. The EU considers settlement expansion illegal under international law. Understanding the history of the conflict is crucial, as areas such as Jerusalem, Hebron and the Jewish quarters of Gush Etzion were inhabited by Jews before 1948. Recognizing these nuances is essential for the EU to strike a balance. The Palestinians have previously accepted the principle of “land swap” and recognize its importance in any future agreement.
Impact on European national security
Instability in the Middle East, and especially the Gaza war, has growing implications for European security. Protests in European cities, especially those with large Arab and Palestinian populations, have sometimes turned violent. Influenced by groups such as Iran and Qatar, and media outlets such as Al Jazeera, protesters have called for the destruction of Israel (“Liberate Palestine – from the River to the Sea”). These actions aim to sway public opinion and push European leaders towards a hostile stance towards Israel.
The EU needs a balanced and up-to-date strategy that takes both sides into account. We must unequivocally oppose all forms of hatred and violence, especially from those who call for the destruction of Israel. Investing in the dissemination of accurate information and improving understanding of the conflict is essential. Educating the public, especially young people, about the complexities of the conflict through media and social media will help counter one-sided anti-Israel rhetoric and prevent actions that go against European values. A balanced approach can also deter anti-democratic elements.
Humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people – an ethical imperative
After the Gaza war, Europe reaffirmed its commitment to human rights. While supporting Israel’s right to self-defense and advocating for the release of the hostages, Europe has also stressed the need to uphold human rights and avoid violations related to armed force and occupation. During the war, Europe sought to protect Gaza’s civilians by providing humanitarian aid, encouraging Israel to cease hostilities, and at times ignoring Hamas’ actions.
Supporting the Palestinians economically, humanitarianly and politically is seen as a moral obligation. European aid helps meet basic humanitarian needs such as food, education, health and infrastructure, out of compassion for the Palestinians, who are considered the “weaker side” without a clear state.
Huge sums of money, over 100 billion euros, have been directed towards the Palestinians in the hopes of achieving political stability and peace. However, aid through the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East has not met their long-term needs, leaving people aid-dependent and impoverished. Refugee camps, where the descendants of former refugees live, attract funds and sympathy but also serve as safe havens for terrorist groups, perpetuating the conflict.
In Gaza, Hamas has used UNRWA facilities for its own purposes, including storing weapons and funding extremist activities. European funds, which are often used to cover general expenses such as salaries for senior Palestinian Authority officials, have been used to build terrorist tunnels in Gaza.
“Extremist groups benefit from lax financial oversight, perpetuating poverty and victimization. Well-managed funds can drive positive change, which is why it is vital that they are closely monitored to ensure they are aligned with European goals.”
Effective European Engagement: To promote lasting peace, Europe needs to reassess its involvement in conflicts.
Prioritize supervised financial assistance: Funds should be aimed at avoiding perpetuating dependency and promoting peace and security through infrastructure development and economic growth.
Fighting Terrorism: We will take a tougher stance against terrorist organizations that exploit the Palestinian people and endanger regional stability and European security.
Promoting Western values ​​and mediation: We will defend democracy, human rights, and the rule of law on both sides, support diplomatic efforts based on trust and non-violence, and renew our approach to Israel’s settlement expansion and right to self-defense.
As Europe confronts the challenges of ongoing conflicts, a strategic reassessment is essential. Outdated perspectives risk increasing tensions, and a balanced, informed policy is needed to enhance European influence, defuse conflicts and safeguard European national security.
The author is a colonel in the Israel Defense Forces reserves and served as an intelligence advisor to two Israeli prime ministers from 2006 to 2010. He later served as NATO and the EU military attaché to Israel.
