The court found that Israel’s continued presence in the entirety of the Palestinian territory is unlawful, and should be brought to an end as rapidly as possible. Now, rather than pursuing the chimera of Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, Europe should focus its immediate efforts on directly challenging Israel’s unlawful practices, and incentivising a future Israeli move towards de-occupation. This includes the need to prevent trade or investment relations with Israeli settlements, as highlighted by the court. The European Union and European states cannot continue business as usual with Israel, and must instead challenge the country’s unlawful practices. Excluding settlements, recognising PalestineWhile Europeans have already taken some significant steps to differentiate between Israel and its settlements, more are needed.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 23, 2024 10:08 UTC