Multiple explosions rocked the capital of Qatar yesterday as Israel struck Hamas leadership figures, killing five members according to Hamas sources.Â
The assault came just weeks before France, Belgium, and Malta plan to recognise Palestine as a state in September 2025 at the United Nations General Assembly.
European governments now find themselves positioned as the sensible alternative to American uncertainty in the Middle East.
Washington’s Middle East Confusion Grows
Trump remains in search of a major foreign policy win six months into his second term. His administration’s frenetic activity has yet to improve America’s overall strategic position whilst prosecuting an unprecedented economic war globally. During his mid-May visit to Riyadh, Trump emphasised US disinterest in becoming entangled in new Middle East crises.
Gulf states have sought closer relations with Iran over recent years in hopes of fostering stability. Washington’s mixed signals leave regional partners uncertain about American commitment levels.
Europe Steps Into Leadership Vacuum
Belgium announced twelve sanctions against Israel including a ban on settlement products and restrictions on consular services. Ireland, Norway, and Slovenia recognised Palestine in 2024 as part of coordinated European pressure for a two-state solution.
European capitals have moved beyond symbolic gestures. Belgium will ban far-right ministers and violent settlers whilst backing moves to suspend EU-Israel cooperation agreements.
The European approach offers Gulf partners something Washington cannot provide. Predictable policy frameworks.
Gulf States Explore New Security Partners
As of June 2025, around forty thousand US servicemembers remain stationed across the Middle East, many on ships at sea. The Trump administration signals readiness to expand military cooperation with Gulf partners, yet regional states worry about long-term American reliability.
European governments have maintained steady economic ties with Gulf states whilst supporting measured diplomatic solutions.
France maintains significant trade relationships across the Middle East, including both Arab and Israeli markets. Gulf leaders notice this economic consistency.
Regional security concerns drive Gulf interest in European alternatives. They want partners who engage diplomatically rather than militarily.
European Balance Appeals to Gulf Pragmatism
The EU strongly condemns settler violence in the occupied West Bank whilst maintaining trade relationships with Israel. European diplomats explore alternative measures including targeted sanctions rather than full suspension of cooperation agreements.
This calibrated approach resonates with Gulf states seeking stability over confrontation. European governments balance economic interests with humanitarian concerns, offering Gulf partners a template for pragmatic engagement.
The Qatar strikes may accelerate Gulf interest in European defense cooperation. As relations between US and Gulf partners face friction, European capitals offer consistent partnership frameworks that blend economic cooperation with measured diplomatic pressure.
Gulf states recognise Palestine alongside Europeans whilst maintaining trade relationships with all parties. Europe’s balanced approach provides the stability Gulf partners crave in an uncertain regional environment.
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