Palestine (Washington Insider Magazine) – Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stubborn opposition to a Palestinian state, the European Union’s Middle East peace envoy remains committed to achieving a two-state solution. Sven Koopmans stressed that the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel’s need for international support makes it impossible for Netanyahu’s government to disregard European perspectives on the issue.
EU Calls for Dialogue
In June, the European Union invited Israel to discuss Gaza and human rights, with Israel agreeing to a meeting after 1 July, following Hungary’s assumption of the EU presidency. Koopmans stressed the importance of these discussions, anticipating substantive discussions about the expectations from Israel as a partner.
Addressing Humanitarian Concerns
According to Newarab, Koopmans denounced Israeli settler aggression in the occupied West Bank and expressed displeasure over aid trucks’ delays at the Gaza border, calling some attacks “genuine terrorism.” Koopmans reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to a two-state solution based on the 1980 declaration recognizing the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians after being appointed as the EU’s special envoy for the peace process in 2021.
EU’s Role and Influence
Koopmans highlighted the European Union’s significant role, noting its status as Israel’s largest trading partner and the top aid donor to the Palestinians. He urged the EU to leverage its influence as a major political and economic neighbour to both parties, despite not being the primary security provider in the region.
Diverging Views Within the EU
Koopmans expressed frustration at the delays in aid deliveries on the Gaza border and condemned the violence by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, describing some attacks as “real terrorism” Koopmans, who was appointed EU Special Representative for the Peace Process in 2021, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to a two-state solution based on the 1980 Declaration, which recognizes the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Strengthening Palestinian Authority
The European Union continues to support the Palestinian Authority (PA), which Koopmans stressed should be strengthened to govern effectively and potentially take over Gaza in the future. The EU also engaged with foreign ministers from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in May, receiving positive reactions to its proposals.
Priorities for Peace
Koopmans explained his main priorities: Ending the suffering in Gaza, preventing a regional conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, and reviving the peace process to create a free Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel. He remained optimistic that the EU’s efforts could lead to substantial progress despite the challenges.
