The Global Outcry Against Forced Displacement in Gaza
The recent proposition by former U.S. President Donald Trump to forcibly displace Gaza’s population and transform the region into the "Riviera of the Middle East" has sparked widespread condemnation. This plan, which blatantly violates international law, is not only a humanitarian catastrophe but also a significant geopolitical risk. However, the true implications for Europe remain largely unrecognized.
According to French political scientist Jean-Pierre Filiu, European leaders have shown alarming complacency in responding to this crisis. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, have remained silent on Trump's proposal. This silence, Filiu warns, is indicative of a bleak future for Europe if urgent action is not taken.
European Passivity in Middle Eastern Conflicts
The European Union has long been sidelined in major Middle Eastern crises. Instead of taking an active role in shaping peace and stability, European leaders have resigned themselves to funding reconstruction efforts after conflicts have ravaged the region. This reactive approach only perpetuates instability and weakens Europe's influence on the global stage.
Lessons from the Syrian Crisis
One of the most glaring examples of this shortsighted strategy was the Syrian crisis from 2013 to 2015. European leaders passively observed as the situation deteriorated, leaving critical decisions to Moscow and Washington. This inaction did not prevent Russia from launching its military campaign in Ukraine, nor did it shield Europe from the wave of terrorist attacks between 2014 and 2016. Furthermore, the refugee crisis that followed—caused by the Assad regime’s displacement of millions—demonstrated Europe's vulnerability to Middle Eastern instability.
Why Gaza Matters for Europe’s Future
Filiu identifies two key lessons that Europe must learn from its past failures:
- The European Union will inevitably suffer the consequences of repeated Middle Eastern crises unless it takes proactive responsibility.
- A stable balance of power in the Middle East is essential for the security and sovereignty of Ukraine and Europe at large.
Despite these lessons, European leaders have failed to grasp the gravity of Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza. The continuous violations of international law in Gaza set a dangerous precedent, eroding the very principles upon which the European Union was built. The question is no longer if these violations will impact Europe, but rather when and to what extent.
The Strategic Consequences of European Indifference
The repercussions of ignoring Gaza are already unfolding. The U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, who previously promoted the "Riviera of the Middle East" idea, is now brokering direct negotiations between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine—while deliberately sidelining European and Ukrainian leaders.
Despite being excluded from these crucial discussions, the European Union remains oblivious to the political price it will pay for neglecting Gaza. This lack of political will is more revealing than any diplomatic statement. As Filiu warns, the European Union is on the verge of repeating the mistakes of the Syrian crisis, but this time with even graver security, migration, and geopolitical consequences.
A Call for European Action
The European Union must recognize that Gaza’s fate is intertwined with its own security and stability. Continued passivity will not only weaken its position in global diplomacy but also expose it to heightened security threats and economic burdens.
By taking a firm stance on Gaza, enforcing international law, and pushing for a just resolution, Europe can safeguard its own future. The time to act is now—before another crisis spirals out of control, leaving Europe to bear the consequences once again.