The European Union has pledged $1.8 billion to the Palestinian territories through 2027, even as its top diplomat says Israel’s military response in Gaza has become disproportionate.
Israel’s right to self-defense isn’t being questioned by Brussels—but the scale of its current military operations is. On Monday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas drew a line, warning that Israel’s actions have gone “beyond proportionate self-defense.” The remark followed renewed fighting in Gaza, where Israel resumed operations against Hamas after a temporary ceasefire had slowed the pace of conflict.
Billions in Aid, Big Expectations
The EU isn’t just weighing in with words—it’s backing its position with money. A sweeping €1.6 billion ($1.8 billion) financial commitment was announced for the Palestinian Authority and Gaza, aimed at preventing total collapse in both regions. That money is set to fund basic infrastructure, humanitarian programs, and refugee support through 2027.
At the center of this shift is a broader EU goal: to help “stabilize” the region and push for a two-state solution.
This comes at a delicate moment. PA Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa was in Luxembourg to meet with EU foreign ministers just as the funding was made public. He shook hands with Kallas, who has now become a leading European voice balancing criticism of Israel with support for Palestinian institutions.
France Joins Chorus, Calls Abbas
French President Emmanuel Macron added another layer. On the same day as the EU’s funding announcement, Macron phoned Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. His message: reforms are needed within the PA if it hopes to play a central role in a post-war Gaza and any future peace process.
Macron’s move signals growing concern in Europe about the credibility and functionality of the Palestinian Authority, especially in light of Hamas’s role in Gaza. He called for steps that would enable the PA to “restore its legitimacy” and become a partner for long-term peace.
Growing EU Frustration with Israel’s Tactics
Kallas’ remarks about Israel’s response being disproportionate weren’t isolated. They reflect a slow but steady shift in the EU’s tone over the past few months. While EU leaders were initially united in supporting Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack, criticism has been mounting as the humanitarian toll in Gaza continues to rise.
The tension is clear in how European nations speak: acknowledging Israel’s security concerns while also urging restraint. Israel, for its part, continues to insist its actions are targeted at dismantling Hamas’ operational capabilities, not at harming civilians.
There’s been no shortage of international criticism:
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UN officials and NGOs have raised alarms about rising civilian casualties.
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Several EU member states have floated the idea of independent investigations.
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Protests across European capitals have called for ceasefires and boycotts.
Yet, European diplomacy remains caught in a tightrope walk—condemning Hamas, supporting Israel’s right to exist, and trying to revive a Palestinian authority that many see as dysfunctional.
Can $1.8 Billion Buy Stability?
The EU’s funding announcement is ambitious, but questions remain. Will the money make a real difference on the ground, especially if fighting continues? And can Europe realistically expect major PA reforms, particularly with Abbas facing mounting criticism from within?
Here’s what the EU says the money will go toward:
| Sector | Planned Investment |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure rebuilding | €700 million |
| Humanitarian aid | €400 million |
| Education & healthcare | €300 million |
| Refugee support programs | €200 million |
One thing is clear—the EU isn’t just watching from the sidelines. It’s taking a more hands-on approach, aiming to shape the political and humanitarian landscape of the region in a way that favors diplomacy over further destruction.
Still, Europe’s growing assertiveness risks putting it at odds with Israeli leadership, particularly if the rhetoric hardens or financial support for the PA is viewed as indirect aid to those harboring or enabling militant groups.
A Balancing Act With No Clear End
As the war in Gaza grinds on, international actors are adjusting their positions. The EU’s dual-track strategy—financial support for Palestinians, criticism of Israeli military tactics—might give it more leverage in shaping future talks. Or it could backfire, pushing Israel further into unilateralism.
