European Efforts for the Palestinian Cause: Impact on Israel

Europe has a long history of involvement in the Middle East.

The recent decision of Ireland, Spain, and Norway to recognize a Palestinian state is more about their internal politics than anything else.

The decision of three European nations to take this step is significant news and may lead to diplomatic repercussions. This could potentially influence their allies to adopt a stronger position on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

On the other hand, it is worth noting that even pressure from the US has not significantly altered the perspective of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In response, Israel has taken action by recalling the ambassadors of Ireland and Norway, accusing them of backing terrorism.

Conversations about the practical implications of recognizing Palestinian statehood and its long-term benefits are important. However, for many European countries, the issue of Israel and Palestine does not carry high stakes.

In countries like Ireland, Spain, and Norway, support for a Palestinian state aligns with public opinion and is unlikely to result in political backlash. This is not always the case in other European nations. While Germany supports a peaceful two-state solution in the future, it has consistently backed Israel. Similarly, Hungary, Poland, the UK, and other countries have also shown support for Israel.

Smoke rises into the sky following an Israeli attack on Jabalia, as viewed from Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip on May 19, 2024, during the current conflict between Israel and the militant Hamas group.

Smoke billows after an Israeli strike on Jabalia as seen from Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip on May 19, 2024, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the militant Hamas group.

Stringer/AFP/Getty Images

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Spain, Norway, and Ireland have announced their intention to recognize a Palestinian state. This decision has raised concerns about military support and possible complicity in the conflict with Hamas. The UK government is facing calls to disclose legal advice on the legality of selling arms to Israel and its compliance with international law.

But these issues are mostly focused on domestic matters. European governments have traditionally left the handling of Middle East affairs, particularly involving Israel, to the United States, mainly because of US military involvement in the region.

European countries simply do not hold significant influence in this region. The Middle East did not play a major role in European policy until the aftermath of the Arab Spring, which resulted in a large influx of migrants into continental Europe. Apart from the practical challenges posed by mass migration, there was also a security concern, as terrorist groups took advantage of the situation to carry out attacks across the continent.

Europeans do care about the Middle East, especially the Palestinian cause. In Ireland, many people support Palestine because of their own history of occupation. Norway played a role in mediating the Oslo accords.

The European Union has provided significant humanitarian aid to Palestinian territories and endorsed a two-state solution. The European Commission stated its commitment to the vision of an independent Palestinian state living peacefully alongside Israel.

It is uncertain whether this will help with any peace process. Norway is not part of the EU, so this is not a joint effort from Europe. It is highly doubtful that all 27 member states would be willing to support this as much as Ireland and Spain. While it may urge larger countries to make a decision, Europe does not have a unified voice and is not likely to in the near future.

Editor's P/S:

The recent recognition of a Palestinian state by Ireland, Spain, and Norway highlights the complex dynamics of European involvement in the Middle East. While these decisions may reflect domestic political considerations, they also underscore the growing dissatisfaction with Israel's continued occupation of Palestinian territories. However, Europe's influence in the region remains limited, with the US playing a dominant role. Notably, the EU has provided substantial humanitarian aid to Palestinians, but its stance on a two-state solution has not significantly altered Israel's position. The recognition of a Palestinian state by individual European nations is a symbolic gesture, but it remains to be seen whether it will have any practical impact on the ongoing conflict.