GLOBAL realities happen to be dynamic and ever-changing. The Europe that once was ready to give a Nato shield to Israel and the United States in their illegal actions across the world is now pivoting away from that ironclad support. About 30 months back, when Israel unleashed its brutal use of force in Gaza, it was Europe which was standing firmly behind Israel while criticising Hamas and blaming it for the infamous events of Oct 7, 2023. Today, that same Europe is looking the other way, with Spain emerging as the leader of anti-Israel bloc within Europe.

It is too early to be sure, but Europe seems to be losing its patience with Israel and the US. The European countries that were once a single voice with the US and Israel are now hesitating, and diplomatic language has turned sharp. It is for the first time that key European allies are questioning Israel’s actions in Gaza.

So, what has changed? Why are long- standing allies keeping their distance? And, could this mark the beginning of some broader geopolitical realignment? The answer of Europe’s pivot away from Israel and the US lies in Israel’s ruthless war in Gaza, Europe’s quest for strategic autonomy, crimes against humanity committed by Israel and the US, changing public opinion of European citizens, Donald Trump’s criticism of European allies, disregard of international law by Israel and the US, and the launching of unjustified foreign wars and breaching sovereignty of independent countries.

Another key factor that has widened the gulf between Europe and US-Israel duo is the recent pressure exerted on Europe by Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu to join their illegal and unjustified war on Iran. The days seem to be over when the US had European allies at its back to launch foreign wars in Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan and other countries.

The current leadership in Europe is tired of what seems like American penchant for unending wars. Europe’s pivot away is a very sensible and timely decision. While Trump has become a warmonger, threatening Iranians to wipe out an entire civilisation overnight, Europe is calling for diplomacy and de-escalation. A number of European countries are stepping back from joining the war. Despite Trump’s provocation, Europe has stayed cautious, trying to end the war, safeguard energy supplies, and avoid deeper involvement.

If it stays the course, Europe is bound to achieve strategic autonomy. These nations are moving forward to recognise Palestinian statehood and reviewing trade and diplomatic relations with Israel and the US to assert an independent foreign policy that is firmly rooted in international law rather than being run on American directives. The days ahead may well be quite interesting on more than one count.

Zain ul Abdin Jessar
Larkana

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2026