The European Commission’s recent move to propose the suspension of certain trade provisions in the EU–Israel Association Agreement — alongside sanctions against Hamas, extremist Israeli ministers, and violent settlers — signals a notable shift in Europe’s stance towards Israel.
Brussels has also paused bilateral support to Israel, with the exceptions of funding for civil society initiatives and the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial. “The horrific events unfolding in Gaza on a daily basis must come to an end,” said Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, marking a clear change in tone towards a longstanding ally.
Israel’s right to self-fefence — and its limits
Israel retains every right to defend itself, particularly after the shock of the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack, which targeted thousands of civilians and left a deep scar on Israeli society. No reasonable observer denies the gravity of that assault.
But nearly a year on, the trajectory of Israel’s military response, especially its ground offensive in Gaza City, is testing the resolve of even its closest allies, including Cyprus.
With hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped in worsening conditions, even Israeli military leaders are reported to have warned the government about the strategic and humanitarian risks of such operations — not least for the hostages and soldiers involved.
Israel’s overwhelming military superiority risks being undermined by the asymmetric nature of the conflict, where tactical victories can result in long-term strategic setbacks.
The eradication of Hamas cannot be achieved with tanks alone. On the contrary, the devastation of Gaza could well become the seedbed for its resurgence, potentially more radicalised and decentralised.
The decline of diplomacy — and a window for Cyprus
The ongoing war in Gaza is also a stark example of the retreat of diplomacy as a tool for conflict resolution — a worrying global trend with implications closer to home, including for the Cyprus issue.
As Cyprus prepares to assume the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2026, it has a unique opportunity to help re-centre diplomacy in Middle East affairs. This may not amount to a paradigm shift, but symbolism matters, especially at times of geopolitical fracture.
The international community, and Israel itself, must urgently outline a political framework for the future of the Palestinian people — millions of ordinary civilians who deserve a life free from violence and extremism, and who need a path to rebuild their lives in safety, beyond Hamas's control.
