Operation Al-Aqsa Storm: A Turning Point in European Politics?
Since the commencement of Operation Al-Aqsa Storm on October 7, the international landscape has undergone profound transformations. The Israeli army's utter decimation in Gaza and the reshaping of the Palestinian issue as a paramount concern within the region and among global powers signify the extensive ramifications of this historic turning point. Consequently, Europe and European governments have experienced significant shifts in their positions. Until October 7, the European Union, through its tacit support for Israeli crimes, undermined the prospects of a two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. The failure to address Israel's barbarism and the absence of any criticism against this barbarism led ultimately to the eruption of events on October 7. Europe bears a share of responsibility for this incident, and it is now imperative to explore how it can rectify its approach to a crisis that Europeans themselves had a hand in igniting, namely the failure to recognize Palestine as an independent state.
Beyond the delayed reconsideration of their wrongs approach, European capitals still harbor doubts. Some have conditionalized their endorsement of an independent Palestinian state on the reduction of violence, hoping that this approach will pave the way for constructive dialogues with Israel. However, it appears that European politics increasingly diverge from the realities on the ground. As recurrent conflicts demonstrate, this stance only undermines Europe's interests in fostering a viable solution and curbing the increasingly difficult-to-contain military outbursts. By failing to grasp the intricacies of the Palestinian situation and excluding Hamas from diplomatic processes, the European Union severed dialogue with this vital Palestinian movement.
Furthermore, longstanding antipathy towards Hamas has hindered a constructive European approach. Since Hamas emerged victorious in the 2006 elections, the European Union and its member states have adhered to a no-contact policy toward the movement. They have conditioned engagement with Hamas and its inclusion in a government of national unity led by Mahmoud Abbas on compliance with the Quadrilateral Principles—non-violence, recognition of Israel, and acceptance of previous Palestinian agreements—formulated by the United Nations, the United States, Russia, and the European Union at the time.
Hamas, however, rejects the terms set by the four parties, yet claims to have revised its charter to address European concerns. Hamas leaders contend that the next steps necessitate dialogue with the Europeans, an avenue the European side has been unfortunately unwilling to explore.
Moreover, European diplomats stationed in Baitul-Muqaddas and Ramallah have long regarded this policy as a dead end, as it significantly curtailed European diplomatic maneuverability and impeded efforts to establish a stable and democratic Palestinian state.
Europe's ambiguous stance on Israel's persistent rejection of the two-state solution has further weakened its political clout in the Middle East. Simultaneously, the failure to acknowledge the counterproductive actions of Palestinian Authority, such as Mahmoud Abbas's cancellation of the 2021 elections, has exacerbated Palestinian frustration and eroded the European Union's political leverage on the Palestinians in general. Conversely, numerous European diplomats operating in Southwest Asia and North Africa concur that the European Union's approach must change immediately. They argue that Europe must hold Israel and the Palestinian Authority accountable for their wrong steps. By leveraging its economic and political tools and enhancing its standing within the international system, Europe can assume a significant role in addressing this crisis.
Regrettably, European leaders have yet to align with their field diplomats and make concerted efforts to rectify their past mistakes. This miscalculation stems partly from the fact that Palestine did not feature prominently on their list of priorities, and partly from the belief that the status quo could be maintained through financial assistance to Abbas and his corrupt government. The flawed nature of Europe's approach has now become glaringly apparent due to its inadequate comprehension of the situation in Gaza and its reluctance to engage in dialogue with Hamas.
It is now evident that Europe seeks to improve its conditions and strategies regarding Palestine. This new framework encompasses issues such as recognition of an independent Palestinian state and the condemnation of Israel's violent actions and transgressions. Similarly, Europe must devise a pragmatic and calculated plan concerning the Palestinian issue, heeding the explanations and recommendations of its diplomats more attentively than before. By doing so, Europe can safeguard its reputation as a champion of human rights, protect itself against extremist currents, and ultimately achieve a significant breakthrough in resolving the Palestinian issue. However, this requires a resolute determination among European nations, rather than mere reactive measures prompted by public opinion.
As the international system continues to evolve, Europe must reflect upon its role in addressing the Palestinian issue. By embracing a more proactive and insightful approach, Europe can emerge as a key player in fostering peace and stability, while safeguarding its own interests. The time for transformative action is now, and Europe must seize this opportunity to rectify past mistakes and contribute meaningfully to the resolution of one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
