Justice and Accountability
As Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu exchanged mutual congratulations in Israel on Monday, some officials in Brussels observed their interaction with growing concern. At one point, Trump even suggested that Netanyahu should be pardoned regarding the corruption charges he faces domestically—a suggestion that arguably signals Trump’s desire to focus on future developments rather than past actions, reports 24brussels.
One official emphasized the need for Israel to be held accountable for actions in Gaza, which some have termed “genocide.” “What is very important in a peace process is that justice is done and accountability is done. Let’s not forget that 60,000 innocent people have been killed, that Gaza is destroyed,” they stated.
In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, the German government enacted a ban on exporting any weapons to Israel that could be utilized in Gaza. Currently, ministers in Berlin are preparing to reassess these measures to determine whether the prevailing conditions permit the lifting of restrictions.
Europe’s Role
Meanwhile, in Paris, amid its own political turmoil, there is still a push to retain some leverage in negotiations. “We need to keep [the threat of sanctions] and condition their removal. Everything that has been obtained from Netanyahu has been done under duress. It’s not the moment to decrease pressure,” stated a former French official, underscoring the belief that it remains “too premature” to lessen sanctions.
Joining this view, a member of Britain’s ruling Labour Party noted, “I have a strong sense that pressure on Israel will still be needed,” reflecting a consensus among some European lawmakers on maintaining strong diplomatic measures.
European officials are advocating for a significant role in the upcoming processes, seeking inclusion in Trump’s proposed “board of peace” intended to manage the administration of Gaza. Trump did not clarify the composition of this board on Monday, directing inquiries to his envoy Steve Witkoff, who indicated that there were numerous applicants for the position.
