Rosalind Evans
Israel’s relations with Europe are under unprecedented strain due to ongoing conflicts in Gaza and southern Lebanon. European leaders have criticized Israel’s military actions and are seeking to apply pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate ceasefires. Their concerns include the impact of Israeli military strikes on UN peacekeeping bases, which house European troops. This diplomatic tension marks a significant shift from the support Israel received from Europe just a year ago.
Rising Criticism from European Leaders
European criticism has escalated due to Israel’s strikes in Gaza and southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah forces are active. The EU’s chief diplomat, Josep Borrell, voiced frustration over the current situation, stating, “One month delay at the current pace of people being killed. It’s too many people.” European leaders are also considering halting weapons sales to Israel and imposing sanctions on far-right Israeli ministers. Hugh Lovatt, a senior policy fellow with the European Council on Foreign Relations, said, “Israel’s ties with the EU are under unprecedented stress at this point.”
Tensions Escalate with Strikes on UN Peacekeeping Forces
Israel’s military actions in southern Lebanon have led to severe diplomatic strains with European nations, especially those contributing to the UN peacekeeping mission in the region. Maya Sion-Tzidkiyahu, director of the Israel-Europe Relations Program at Mitvim, highlighted the issue, stating, “When it comes to defending their soldiers, European states tend to be more vocal.” Israel has claimed that Hezbollah is using the UN peacekeeping forces as human shields, but European nations remain highly critical of the impact on their troops.
Shifting European Alliances
The Gaza conflict has caused divisions among European countries, with some leaders advocating for more decisive actions against Israel. Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, recently condemned Israel’s actions in Lebanon, stating, “We defend Israel’s right to live in peace and security, but we reiterate the need for this to happen in compliance with international humanitarian law.” Italy, one of the largest arms suppliers to Israel, has since suspended new export licenses, a move that further illustrates Europe’s growing discontent.
Germany Stands Firm
Amidst the growing criticism from European nations, Germany remains an exception. Berlin continues to support Israel, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz confirming that Germany will continue supplying weapons to Israel. “Israel’s security is Germany’s ‘reason of state,’” Scholz stated, emphasizing the country’s unique relationship with Israel due to its historical context.
The current strain between Israel and Europe has reached unprecedented levels, primarily due to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. European leaders are calling for greater adherence to international law and humanitarian principles. While some nations are distancing themselves, others, like Germany, continue to stand by Israel. The evolving dynamics of these relationships will profoundly impact future diplomatic engagements between Israel and the EU.
