Shift in European Stance on Gaza War: Pressure Mounts on Israel Amid Rising Criticism

A notable shift is emerging in the positions of several Western nations toward Israel, as the war on Gaza intensifies and Tel Aviv faces growing international scrutiny over forced displacement plans and restrictions on humanitarian aid.

Once enjoying largely unconditional support, Israel is now encountering increasing legal and diplomatic pushback. In a significant move, the United Kingdom—long considered one of Israel’s closest allies—has suspended trade talks with Tel Aviv and imposed sanctions on settlers in the West Bank. 

Furthermore, around 800 British legal experts have called for sanctions against the Israeli government and its ministers, alongside a review of existing trade relations.

This shift in the UK has resonated across the European Union, where several member states are reportedly reconsidering long-standing partnership agreements with Israel. On the ground, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate under relentless bombardment and a crippling blockade, prompting aid organizations to warn of an imminent humanitarian catastrophe. Accusations of genocide have also been leveled at Israel by international rights groups.

In Germany, newly appointed Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed his country’s deep concern over the targeting of Gaza’s infrastructure, stating that Berlin "will not stand idly by" if violations persist. Meanwhile in France, the government condemned Israel’s conduct of the war, with the Prime Minister announcing the beginning of formal procedures to recognize the State of Palestine in coordination with Canada and the UK. Sweden followed suit, summoning the Israeli ambassador and calling for EU-wide sanctions against Tel Aviv.

After more than 19 months of relative silence, a renewed moral awakening is beginning to stir across parts of the Western world. While limited to certain countries for now, the call to end the war and stop crimes against a defenseless population—seeking only their rightful place under the flag of their own state—is growing louder.