Balancing realism and vision – The prospects of EU – Israel relations in times of change and uncertainty

In this joint EPC-FSD Policy Brief, Andrea Frontini and Eran Etzion assess the state of play and the future prospects of EU-Israel relations in the light of recent domestic and regional political developments. They argue that, despite frequent cacophony and recurring stalemates, the EU-Israel partnership still has the potential to pursue shared strategic objectives. The two sides have to realign their relations, taking into account new realities and common challenges in the Middle East and Northern Africa region, and the current state of the Middle East Peace Process. More careful differentiation and stronger prioritisation of the policy dossiers at stake are urgently needed. An autonomous but joined up review of the overall relationship, guided by courage, pragmatism and stronger strategic direction, is crucial in order to move ahead.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information; EU states renew call to label Israeli settler goods http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-states-renew-call-to-label-israeli-settler-goods/

ESO: Background information: Netanyahu comments put EU relations in doubt http://www.europeansources.info/record/netanyahu-comments-put-eu-relations-in-doubt/

EU: EEAS: Israel and the European Union http://eeas.europa.eu/israel/index_en.htm

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