Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s unwavering opposition to a Palestinian state, the European Union’s Middle East peace envoy, Sven Koopmans, remains resolute in his belief that a two-state solution remains the only viable path to peace, citing growing international pressure on Israel as a key factor.
In an interview with AFP, Koopmans acknowledged the significant obstacle posed by Netanyahu’s stance, stating, “I think that recently he was very explicit about rejecting the two-state solution.” However, the Dutch diplomat emphasized that this rejection does not negate the global consensus on the need for a two-state solution, stating, “Now, that means that he has a different point of view from much of the rest of the world.”
Koopmans’ unwavering commitment to the two-state solution comes at a critical juncture in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The devastating war in Gaza, sparked by Hamas’s October 7th attack on Israel, has further intensified calls for a just and lasting resolution. However, Netanyahu and his right-wing government have doubled down on their rejection of Palestinian statehood, arguing that the current situation necessitates a different approach.
Despite the challenges posed by Netanyahu’s stance, Koopmans remains optimistic, pointing to Israel’s reliance on international support as leverage for the EU. With the Gaza war ongoing and Israel facing scrutiny over its conduct, Koopmans argues that Netanyahu cannot afford to completely disregard the international community’s stance on the conflict, particularly the views of key allies like the European Union.
“It is important that we have that discussion,” stated Koopmans, referring to the EU’s recent invitation for Israel to engage in dialogue regarding Gaza and human rights. While Israel initially resisted the invitation, it has since agreed to a meeting after July 1st, when Hungary, a staunch supporter of Netanyahu’s government, assumes the EU presidency.
Koopmans views this upcoming meeting as an opportunity to re-engage with Israel and reiterate the EU’s unwavering commitment to a two-state solution. He emphasized that while one side’s rejection of this outcome presents a significant challenge, it does not diminish the international community’s responsibility to pursue a just and lasting peace.
The EU’s unwavering stance on the two-state solution stands in stark contrast to the shifting positions of other key international actors, particularly the United States. The Biden administration, while expressing support for a two-state solution, has refrained from actively pursuing this goal, opting instead for a more hands-off approach.
This lack of decisive action from the international community has emboldened the Israeli government, which continues to expand its illegal settlement enterprise in the occupied West Bank, further diminishing the prospects for a viable Palestinian state. The international community’s failure to hold Israel accountable for its actions has created a climate of impunity, emboldening those who seek to maintain the status quo of occupation and oppression.
Koopmans’ insistence on the importance of dialogue and engagement, despite the obstacles, reflects the EU’s recognition that the status quo is unsustainable and that a just and lasting peace requires a two-state solution. The EU’s steadfast commitment to this goal, even in the face of Israeli intransigence, offers a glimmer of hope for the Palestinian people, who have endured decades of occupation and dispossession.
However, words alone will not bring about peace. The international community must translate its rhetoric into concrete action, holding Israel accountable for its violations of international law and actively supporting the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. The EU’s unwavering commitment to a two-state solution, while commendable, must be accompanied by concrete steps to pressure Israel to change course and engage in meaningful negotiations towards a just and lasting peace.
The alternative—a future defined by perpetual conflict, occupation, and the denial of fundamental rights—is unacceptable and demands a united and resolute response from the international community.
