European leaders’ silence and support for Israel’s attack on Iranian territory is a stark example of the continent’s diplomatic malpractice and double standards. Despite condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, European powers have endorsed Israel’s actions, citing “self-defense” as a justification for aggression.
The European stance on Ukraine invoked Article 2(4) of the UN Charter with political clarity, but when it came to Israel’s attack on Iran, Europe reframed aggression as virtue and condoned it. This Orwellian rhetoric has exposed Europe’s credibility and reinforced its reputation for double standards.
Renowned experts Mohamed ElBaradei and Francesca Albanese have criticized European leaders for their stance. El Baradei reminded the German foreign ministry that Israel’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities are prohibited under international law, while Albanese commented that Europe’s support for Israel’s actions in the Middle East undermines its claim to moral authority.
Europe’s diplomatic failures in the region, including its failure to uphold the JCPOA and push for de-escalation, have created a vacuum for escalation. The EU’s refusal to shield companies willing to engage with Iran has further damaged relations. As a result, Tehran views Europe as an actively destructive player undermining regional stability.
The consequences of Europe’s diplomatic self-sabotage will be severe. It will erode trust in the Global South and increase the likelihood of proliferation. A regional war in the Middle East will have far-reaching implications for European interests, including uncontrolled migration, terrorism, and energy shocks.
Unless European leaders take a course correction, such as holding Israel accountable for its aggression, Europe’s decay will accelerate. The continent’s complicity in Israel’s actions undermines its claim to moral authority and signs its own geopolitical suicide note.
Source: https://responsiblestatecraft.org/europe-reaction-israel-attack