EU diplomats: 'Jewish state' is becoming too Jewish

12/16/11

BRUSSELS - EU countries have raised a red flag on Israel's treatment of its Arab minority in a complaint that touches the heart of its identity as a "Jewish state."

The deputy heads of EU embassies in Tel Aviv put forward their concerns in a 27-page-long internal report sent to the European Exernal Action Service (EEAS) earlier this month.

"We should make the following points clear ... that we do not believe that recognition of Israel as a Jewish state should detract in any way from the vision of equality for all its citizens enshrined in its founding documents; that it is in the interests of all Israelis to demonstrate that Israel is not only Jewish and democratic, but tolerant and inclusive."

The controversial Recommendations make 16 points.

One idea is to nominate a "lead EU country" to monitor "potentially discriminatory draft legislation" and to "agree that approval at the second reading of such legislation [in the Knesset] should trigger an EU counter-action."

They also suggest "high-level EU visitors see the Israeli Arab community and its leadership when they visit." 

How the Arab Spring can save Europe's international ambitions  11/18/11

BRUSSELS - One of the most striking elements of the outside involvement in the Arab Spring is the failure of the Obama administration to develop a comprehensive approach in dealing with the uprisings.

The United States is unable to truly champion freedom and democracy, largely due to its close relations with Israel, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states. This provides opportunities for other actors – such as the European Union or China – to upgrade its engagement with the region.

The legitimate uprising against minority dictatorship in Bahrain is largely ignored by Washington, which fears losing the headquarters of its fifth fleet in Manama. When Saudi tanks crossed the bridge to crush the Shi’a uprising in Bahrain, Obama kept silent not wanting to alienate Riyadh. And most important of all, American ties with Israel are unwavering despite the continued occupation and settlement activity. These developments continue to contaminate the image of Obama in the region.

When speaking to Arab friends – both Muslims and Christians – about the role of the US, the usual reply is “double standards” often followed by the remark that Obama is no different from Bush. “At least with Bush you knew what you got”.

From Morocco to UAE, less than ten percent support Obama’s policies.

These developments create space for other actors to engage in the region. This void could be filled by the EU building strategic ties with the new Middle East.

The EU's reputation in the Middle East is not tainted by unquestioned support for Israel.  The EU could dare to step out of the shadow of the US and develop its own comprehensive approach to the region.

The European External Action Service is an ideal instrument in this regard.

Furthermore, good relations between Europe and the Middle East on the political front will likely also have economic ramifications. The EU should therefore support a comprehensive approach of political and economic liberalisation.

The Arab Spring therefore provides the ideal opportunity for the EU to maintain an important player in world politics.

 

What's the counter-action of the EU for the Jewish State becoming too Jewish?

Mideast envoy role for UK prince?

October 20, 2001

The Prince of Wales may act as an unofficial envoy in the war against terrorism, it has emerged.

It is understood his close contacts with Saudi Arabia and sympathetic understanding of Islam would help the international coalition shore up support in the Arab world.

 

And more than anyone else in the world, P.Charles lectures on the virtues of Islam.

 

Soon to come, like I've always posted.

Mid-Point - March 21st 2013

God Bless

gail