EU's Role in Gaza Conflict: Urgent Call for Action from Former Diplomat

In a recent article published in Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, the European Union's former High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, emphasized the EU's critical need to take a more assertive role in addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Co-authored with Kalypso Nicolaïdis, a professor at the European University Institute, the article argues that Europe has a moral obligation to intervene in the conflict rather than remaining a passive observer (Borrell & Nicolaïdis, 2025).

Borrell's commentary comes as the violence in Gaza escalates, prompting urgent calls for international mediation. He argues that the EU has been relegated to the sidelines, overshadowed by the diplomatic efforts of the United States and regional powers like Egypt and Qatar. "Europe can no longer afford to linger at the margins," Borrell stated, emphasizing that the EU must develop a comprehensive strategy to mediate the conflict and address the violations of international law occurring in the region (Borrell, 2025).

The historical context of the EU's involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict reveals a pattern of ambivalence and disunity among member states. Despite being one of Israel's largest trading partners, EU nations often struggle to present a unified front when it comes to foreign policy, especially regarding Israel's actions in Gaza. In the past, countries like Germany and Hungary have opposed measures that could weaken ties with Israel, further complicating the EU's ability to act decisively (European Commission, 2023).

Current debates within the EU have intensified following the blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, which has been condemned by several member states. Last month, Borrell's successor, Kaja Kallas, acknowledged Israel's breaches of human rights commitments, yet emphasized the challenge in achieving consensus on a concrete action plan (Kallas, 2025). This internal division has hindered the EU's potential role as a mediator in the conflict, allowing other international actors to dominate the discourse.

In their article, Borrell and Nicolaïdis propose several strategies for the EU to reclaim its mediating role. These include utilizing the EU’s financial leverage to influence Israel, suspending Israel’s participation in EU programs like Erasmus+, and exploring Article 20 of the EU Treaty, which allows a coalition of at least nine member states to implement foreign policy measures independent of the entire bloc (Borrell & Nicolaïdis, 2025).

The authors assert that the EU's disunity has diminished its stature as a powerful voice in the Middle East, transforming it into a mere observer rather than an active participant in peace negotiations. They caution that unless the EU acts decisively, it risks being perceived as complicit in the humanitarian crises unfolding in Gaza (Borrell & Nicolaïdis, 2025).

The implications of the EU's inaction extend beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns. Economically, the EU's ongoing trade relationship with Israel persists despite the conflict, raising questions about the ethical dimensions of such ties during times of crisis. Politically, the EU’s failure to present a cohesive response may embolden both Israel and Palestinian factions, ultimately prolonging the cycle of violence (European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, 2023).

Looking ahead, the necessity for a concerted EU approach to the Gaza crisis is more urgent than ever. As the situation continues to develop, the call from Borrell and Nicolaïdis serves as a reminder of the EU’s historical responsibility to engage actively in peace-building efforts in the Middle East. The future of EU involvement in the region hinges on its ability to unify member states around a common goal: to uphold human rights and foster stability in a conflict-ridden area (Borrell, 2025).

In conclusion, the EU faces a critical juncture. As humanitarian conditions in Gaza worsen, the bloc must decide whether to step up and confront its historical obligations or remain on the sidelines, risking further erosion of its influence and credibility in international affairs.