Past is Prologue: How Have EU’s Biggest Powers Responded to the West Asian Crisis?

By Rita Borriello

Published on November 7, 2024

The Israel-Hamas conflict that began on October 7, 2023, was marked by a large-scale assault by Hamas on Israel, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and more than 240 hostages taken. This attack was the deadliest for Israel since its independence. In response, Israel declared a state of war, launching air strikes on the Gaza Strip, followed by a ground invasion. By October 2024, over 41,000 Gazans had been killed, and two-thirds of Gaza's buildings were damaged or destroyed. The conflict has also sparked a rise in anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents globally, highlighting its broader social and political impact. The international reaction was mixed. Many Western countries condemned Hamas’s attack, while others called for restraint. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsened, international pressure mounted on Israel to allow aid into the territory. Accusations of genocide against Israel emerged, leading to legal actions at the International Court of Justice. The conflict further complicated West Asian politics, with regional tensions involving other neighbouring countries and disrupted new inter-state dynamics in the region.

Between National Interest and International Law

The conflict not only highlights the complexities of regional hostilities but also underscores the broader challenges faced by the international community in enforcing the rule of law during warfare. In this context, the balance between humanitarian law, state sovereignty, self-defence, and accountability becomes critical. Despite the existence of institutions like the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), political considerations and the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms frequently undermine the pursuit of justice. As a result, the rule of law in international relations is often compromised, particularly in conflict situations, as violations of humanitarian law go unpunished and accountability is unevenly applied.

But how have been countries reacting to such conflict and what kind of approach are they considering? The European Union (EU), while calling for peace, is torn between supporting Israel's right to self-defence and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Among the significant EU powers actors on the world stage, France and Germany stand out due to their considerable impact on political and economic resources and hence their approach to the Israel-Hamas war and the broader West Asian crisis needs assessment and analysis. Both nations advocate for stability in West Asia, but they approach it from different perspectives.

France, with its historical ties to both Israel and Palestine, faces the challenge of maintaining a balanced diplomatic stance, advocating for a two-state solution and under President Macron, has been calling for an immediate and durable ceasefire, emphasizing humanitarian concerns and a balanced approach to the conflict. For France, consideration, especially for its own large Muslim population is also a factor, in order to avoid inflaming domestic tensions. This duality illustrates France’s diplomatic challenge in navigating its relationships with both parties.

Meanwhile, Germany's strong historical support for Israel adds complexity to its calls for restraint, as it navigates growing international pressure for humanitarian aid and accountability in the conflict. The country is maintaining a strict stance, rooted in historical responsibility, which has led to a zero-tolerance policy towards anti-Semitic actions, effectively banning pro-Palestinian protests.​ Germany’s policy aligns with its commitment to Israel’s security as a "reason of state," but its unconditional support amid ongoing Israeli military actions, which have caused significant civilian casualties in Gaza, has sparked controversy. Germany's approach reflects a struggle to balance its historical obligations with contemporary human rights considerations.

Germany and France's Responses to the Conflict

France and Germany have taken a proactive stance in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, emphasizing the need for a cease-fire and humanitarian aid while navigating their geopolitical interests in the region.

• Cease-Fire Advocacy: Both countries, alongside the UK, have publicly endorsed calls for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. They issued a joint statement urging for the release of hostages held by Hamas and advocating for unrestricted humanitarian assistance to the affected population. This collaborative effort reflects a unified approach among European leaders to mitigate the humanitarian crisis and stabilize the region.
• Diplomatic Engagement: French President Emmanuel Macron has articulated a balanced position, asserting Israel's right to defend itself while also stressing the importance of humanitarian aid and political dialogue aimed at achieving a two-state solution. He has engaged with both Israeli and Palestinian leaders, indicating France's commitment to facilitating peace talks. Germany, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, has similarly supported diplomatic efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to broker peace.
• Regional Stability Concerns: France and Germany have expressed concern over potential escalations involving Iran and its allies. They have called on these actors to refrain from retaliatory actions that could exacerbate tensions in West Asia following recent assassinations of militant leaders. This highlights their interest in preventing a broader regional conflict that could disrupt stability.

Regional Crossroads: Navigating Humanitarian Needs, Power Struggles, and Security Stakes

France has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza. President Emmanuel Macron announced an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza from €20 million to €100 million, emphasizing the importance of providing food, medical supplies, and shelter to civilians affected by the conflict. France has coordinated emergency flights to deliver critical supplies, including medical kits capable of treating hundreds of injured individuals and various other essential items. By advocating for humanitarian pauses and engaging with both Israeli and Palestinian leaders, France seeks to position itself as a key player in future diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace in the region.

Germany shares a commitment to humanitarian assistance but also focuses on maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Israel while advocating for Palestinian rights. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reiterated Germany's support for Israel's right to defend itself while stressing the importance of humanitarian aid and political dialogue. Germany’s involvement in peace negotiations is aimed at reinforcing its role as a key player in European diplomacy regarding West Asia. The potential for escalated violence poses significant security risks for Germany, particularly concerning the influence of Iran and militant groups like Hezbollah. By navigating relationships with both Israel and Arab states, Germany aims to ensure regional stability and protect its national interests, which include preventing any spillover effects from the conflict that could threaten European security.

Conclusion

In responding to the Israel-Hamas conflict, France and Germany face the challenge of supporting Israel's sovereignty while addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, raising questions about how military support can coexist with a robust commitment to human rights. Both countries’ responses reflect historical experiences, such as World War II and colonial legacies, which inform their support for multilateralism, international law, and diplomacy. Their current approach stresses the need for actions that protect civilian lives, uphold humanitarian principles, and prevent escalation, underscoring how vital it is for larger nations to balance security interests with human rights obligations.

To navigate this balance effectively, nations must actively participate in international frameworks that uphold humanitarian principles and work to prevent humanitarian crises. While international law faces challenges in a turbulent 21st century, its effectiveness relies on a collective commitment to these established norms, integrating legal frameworks with diplomatic efforts. France’s and Germany’s nuanced approach highlights the necessity of ensuring that support for state interests never undermines fundamental human rights or exacerbates humanitarian crises.

* The Author is a Research Intern at the Kalinga Institute of Indo-Pacific Studies (KIIPS), India. She is also an upcoming Master's graduate in International Relations with a specialisation in Security and Diplomacy at Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II (Italy).