Europe’s leaders have not reached a consensus on the war in Gaza, with some even intervening on Israel’s behalf in international legal proceedings. The EU has failed to condemn Israel for its apparent violations of international humanitarian law, despite the fact that the ICJ and ICC are investigating Israel for crimes against humanity, including genocide. The ICC has applied for warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Defence Minister. The EU’s lack of support for these investigations is in stark contrast to its condemnation and sanctioning of Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.
Irish human rights lawyer Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh presented evidence to the ICJ in January, highlighting the devastating impact of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Despite the high number of Palestinian casualties, including many women and children, the EU has refused to show disapproval of Israel’s actions using the leverage it has. Germany has even intervened at the ICJ on Israel’s behalf, rejecting accusations of genocide. Only four EU member states have called for the review of the Israeli-EU Association Agreement due to human rights breaches, and the EU has only agreed to hold a general meeting with Israel to discuss the agreement without sanctioning Israel.
The ICJ recently stated that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land is illegal and advised Israel to remove its settlers and pay reparations to Palestinians. While the EU’s diplomatic service stated that these conclusions were consistent with EU positions, individual member states like Hungary, Czechia, and Austria regularly reject criticism of Israel. The ICC’s request for warrants for Israeli government members has been stalled by challenges from the UK and Germany, though the UK has announced it is withdrawing its opposition. EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has called for an end to the war in Gaza, stating that the bloodshed must stop immediately.
Critics of the EU believe that von der Leyen’s words come too late and are insufficient. Former Israeli negotiator Daniel Levy argues that Europe has lost ground in the global majority, particularly the Global South, due to its failure to uphold international law in the Gaza conflict. The EU’s handling of the situation has weakened its support and credibility on the global stage. The approach towards Gaza led by von der Leyen has made it impossible for Europe to claim to be an upholder of the rule of law and has damaged its reputation. Europe’s lack of action and support for investigations into Israel’s actions in Gaza have significantly impacted its standing in the international community.
In conclusion, Europe’s failure to take a unified stance on the war in Gaza and its lack of support for investigations into Israel’s actions have raised concerns about its commitment to international law and human rights. The EU’s silence on Israel’s apparent violations of international humanitarian law, compared to its condemnation of Russia for similar issues, has drawn criticism from human rights advocates and experts. Despite some member states calling for action, the EU has yet to take significant steps to address the situation in Gaza, leading to doubts about its ability to uphold its values on the global stage. Europe’s handling of the Gaza conflict has damaged its reputation and credibility, particularly in the eyes of the Global South, and has raised questions about its commitment to justice and human rights.
