This paper examines the European Union’s (EU) role and influence in Palestine, particularly in light of Israel’s genocide and ethnic cleansing against Palestinians in general and on Gaza in particular since October 2023. It traces the EU’s historical engagement from its early political support for Palestinian self-determination to its current identity as the largest donor yet weakest political actor in the region. The study highlights the EU’s internal consensus crisis, its double standards, and its continued economic and political complicity with Israel despite repeated violations of international law. It explores the recent wave of European recognitions of the State of Palestine and questions whether these gestures can move beyond symbolism without enforceable measures such as sanctions or embargoes. Drawing comparisons between the EU’s rapid action in Ukraine and its hesitation in Gaza, the paper underscores a growing credibility gap in European foreign policy. It concludes that with more European states recognizing Palestine, the EU faces a critical moment to transform from a “payer” into a principled “player” that upholds justice, accountability, and Palestinian self-determination.
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