Europe’s patience with Netanyahu has run out

More than a year and a half into the Zionist regime’s assault on the Gaza Strip, the tone of European leaders toward Tel Aviv has shifted dramatically.

According to a report by the U.S. newspaper The Washington Post, images of starving children, destroyed schools, and displaced civilians in Gaza have not only stirred European public opinion but have also pushed some of Israel’s staunchest allies in Europe to openly criticize Tel Aviv.

A European Union diplomat told The Washington Post, “We can no longer ignore what is happening in Gaza. Our patience with Netanyahu has run out.”

According to the report, in an unprecedented move, Germany—historically cautious in its support for Israel due to its responsibility toward the Jewish people—has now openly criticized Tel Aviv.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, following a deadly Israeli attack on a school in Gaza used as a shelter, stated, “Attacks on civilians are no longer justifiable.” He warned that Israel must not reach a point where “even its closest friends are no longer willing to offer support.”

These remarks coincide with the European Commission’s decision to review trade relations with Israel, a move led by the Netherlands, one of Israel’s closest allies in the EU. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, previously a staunch supporter of Tel Aviv, described recent Israeli military attacks as “despicable.”

According to The Washington Post, while the EU has not yet reached a consensus on fully suspending relations, several member states, including Spain, have called for halting arms exchanges and suspending trade cooperation. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated, “Images of babies dying of starvation and an Israeli government unwilling to engage in diplomacy are no longer tolerable for many European leaders.”

The Washington Post further noted that France is considering recognizing Palestine as a state, a move strongly opposed by Netanyahu, who described it as “rewarding terrorists.”

As Israel’s largest trading partner, the EU holds leverage it has so far refrained from using, according to the report. However, the intensity of the violence, Netanyahu’s insistence on continuing military operations, and open plans for reoccupying Gaza have prompted many European capitals to reconsider their stance.

Amid these pressures, a group of EU employees collectively issued a statement calling for an end to cooperation with Israel and increased pressure for a ceasefire. The statement read, “This decision, though overdue, comes far too late for the thousands killed in Gaza.”

While the United States remains Israel’s primary military backer, the growing rift between Washington and Brussels over the Gaza war has become more evident than ever. As the Trump administration continues to support military operations, the EU is gradually distancing itself from the policies of the Netanyahu government.