A coalition of prominent European political figures is urging immediate measures to support Palestinian statehood while calling for sanctions against Israel over its military campaign in Gaza. This push follows a significant United Nations General Assembly vote endorsing a renewed framework for a two-state solution.
The UN’s recent inquiry has concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide, reinforcing months of warnings from human rights organizations. As the assault on Gaza City escalates, the international community faces a legal and moral imperative to intervene, including through sanctions targeting the Israeli government to halt ongoing war crimes.
This year’s UN General Assembly is viewed as a critical juncture, not only for addressing the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza but also for advancing the long-stalled recognition of a Palestinian state. For the European Union, whose global credibility has been damaged by its response to the conflict, this represents a decisive test.
Despite decades of diplomatic efforts since the Oslo Accords, the prospect of peace has never seemed more remote. While European institutions formally endorse a two-state solution, the reality on the ground demands more decisive action. The Israeli government continues to expand settlements in the West Bank in violation of international law, permits settler violence with impunity, and weakens the Palestinian Authority by withholding tax revenues.
A growing number of European nations, including Spain, Sweden, and France, have recently moved to recognize Palestine. This momentum must be strengthened through further unified European recognition, sending a clear signal of commitment to a two-state future.
Beyond recognition, the EU is being called upon to take concrete steps to bolster Palestine. Upgrading the existing interim association agreement to a full partnership—with enhanced financial support, expanded trade, and structured political dialogue—is presented as a necessary measure to support Palestinian state-building.
Contrary to claims that a Palestinian state threatens Israel’s security, these leaders argue that true and lasting security for Israel is only achievable alongside a sovereign and secure Palestine. Denying Palestinians freedom, security, and dignity, they contend, ultimately undermines the possibility of a peaceful resolution for both peoples.
