Europe’s Patience with Israel Is Wearing Thin

Europe is finally showing the first signs that its patience with Israel is running out. The European Commission’s recommendation to restrict Israel’s participation in the “Horizon” scientific research program is not just a technical move—it is, actually, a political message. I believe it reflects a shift in how some European governments see Israel’s conduct in Gaza and its disregard for international law.

Indeed, for decades Israel has benefited from Europe’s academic and research networks while acting with near impunity on the Palestinian issue. I see the current step, supported by Spain and Ireland, as a small but significant break in that tradition of European hesitation. Even the Netherlands has indicated that it would back suspending Israel from Horizon if the EU formally concludes that Israel is breaching international law. This is, in my view, a major development in the political mood of the European Union.

Actually, the impact is already visible on Israel’s academic scene. I believe the growing academic boycott tells a deeper story: Israeli research is losing its shine internationally. The Council of Israeli University Presidents has reported more than 750 cases of boycott since the Gaza war began, and Horizon grants for young Israeli researchers dropped by about 70% in 2025 compared to the previous year. I see this as a clear sign that Israel’s reputation is eroding beyond diplomacy—it is now facing reputational damage in the scientific world as well.

From my perspective, the EU’s move is largely symbolic, but it carries weight. I think symbolism matters because it signals that the old pattern—military aggression followed by European silence—is no longer guaranteed. Amos Gilad, a former Israeli security official, recently warned in "Yedioth Ahronoth" that Israel’s plan for direct military rule in Gaza is a “dangerous illusion,” reminding me of Israel’s failed adventure in Lebanon in 1982. I believe he is right: such policies could drain Israel economically and damage its strategic position.

Actually, I see this moment as the beginning of a bigger shift. Even if the EU does not fully enforce the recommendation, the mere debate affects Israel’s global image. I think future generations in Europe will be less willing to tolerate unconditional support for a state accused of violating international law and committing crimes against humanity.

In my point of view, Europe’s message is becoming harder to ignore: Israel cannot continue on this path without consequences. I believe this small step on the Horizon program is not the end—but rather the first sign that the international environment around Israel is changing, and possibly for good.