Context:
An editorial analyses the European Union’s restrained economic and diplomatic response to Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict, despite public condemnation, war crime allegations, and widespread protests across Europe. The EU’s approach stands in sharp contrast to its swift and punitive response against Russia following the Ukraine invasion.
Key Highlights:
EU–Israel Relations amid Gaza Conflict
- Tensions have intensified between the EU and Israel over the conduct of military operations in Gaza.
- Despite strong rhetoric and public criticism, the EU has largely maintained economic and trade ties with Israel.
- Israel’s monthly exports to the EU peaked at $2 billion in March 2025, the highest level during the conflict.
Selective Political and Military Signals
- France announced it would recognise Palestine as a state in September, aligning with other EU members.
- Germany, Israel’s key ally, halted exports of some military equipment, marking a symbolic but limited shift.
- Germany accounted for 33% of Israel’s arms imports (2020–24).
- The EU is considering partial suspension of Israel from the £80 billion Horizon Research Programme.
Public Opinion vs Policy Action
- A PEW Research Center survey indicates growing unfavourable views of Israel and PM Netanyahu among Europeans.
- Large-scale pro-Palestinian demonstrations have occurred across EU member states.
- However, public pressure has not translated into coordinated EU-level sanctions.
Contrast with Russia–Ukraine Response
- Against Russia, the EU:
- Imposed sweeping trade and financial sanctions
- Froze assets and restricted energy imports
- In Israel’s case, the EU cites:
- Different threat perceptions
- Strategic, security, and historical considerations
Legal & Institutional Frameworks Under Scrutiny
- EU–Israel Association Agreement (2000):
- Provides for political dialogue and preferential trade
- Faces calls for suspension due to alleged violations of human rights clauses
- Some EU states demand an end to trade with Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, considered illegal under international law.
International Recognition of Palestine
- 147 of 193 UN member states have recognised Palestine.
- The UK (outside the EU) indicated it may recognise Palestine unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire, adding pressure on European diplomacy.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: EU’s limited economic action against Israel despite Gaza conflict.
- Key Causes:
- Strategic alliances
- Security concerns
- Internal divisions within the EU
- Important Agreements & Programmes:
- EU–Israel Association Agreement (2000)
- Horizon Research Programme (£80 billion)
- Data Points:
- Israel–EU exports peaked at $2 billion/month (March 2025)
- Germany supplied 33% of Israel’s arms (2020–24)
- Impact:
- Credibility concerns for EU’s human rights-based foreign policy
Relevant Mains Points:
- Key Concepts & Definitions:
- Two-State Solution: Independent Israel and Palestine coexisting peacefully
- Sanctions Diplomacy: Use of trade and economic tools to enforce norms
- Analytical Issues:
- Normative power vs realpolitik in EU foreign policy
- Selective application of international law
- Challenges:
- EU’s lack of foreign policy unity
- Balancing moral values with strategic interests
- Way Forward:
- Consistent application of human rights conditionality
- Greater coherence in EU external action
- Support for ceasefire, humanitarian access, and revival of Two-State Solution
- Alignment of trade policy with international humanitarian law
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS Paper II: International Relations, Global Conflicts, India–EU Relations
- GS Paper III: International Trade, Sanctions, Global Economy