The Israel-Hamas war has held up a mirror to European powerlessness

The Financial Times: The relationship between Israel, Hamas and the European Union in the context of the ongoing conflict has a complex and morally fraught dynamic. They face a dilemma over where to draw the line between “vital self-defence” and “unconscionable retaliation”, especially in Israel’s military response to Hamas.

US President Joe Biden, as well as European leaders such as Olaf Scholz of Germany and Rishi Sunak of the UK, recognise Israel’s right to self-defence but question the scale and scope of its response against Hamas. European leaders are struggling to define the line between justified self-defence and disproportionate force, especially as Palestinian civilian casualties increase. The broader geopolitical implications of the conflict are also touched upon, from possible spillover effects in Europe to growing tensions between Muslim populations and far-right groups in European countries. Concerns are raised about double standards in the international response to Israel’s actions (cutting off Gaza from vital resources) compared to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

As a result, one can only lament the declining influence of European governments in Middle Eastern affairs, and that this retreat has left them virtually powerless to influence the course of events. For long-term security, Israel must seek a political solution to the conflict with the Palestinians, something European leaders agree with, but they cannot effectively advocate.

The entire article can be read at the link https://www.ft.com/content/e8ff6181-dcb5-4271-a6a1-de2db1055b01