Op-Ed
The belated resolution also calls for ‘unconditional release of all hostages.’ It was passed today with 312 votes in favor, 131 against, and 32 abstentions. Some of those who voted against it did so because it wasn't strong enough. By nation, only Austria and the Czech Republic voted against it. This is the third time that the resolution was voted on and the first time it passed with enough votes for approval.
Irish Green Party MEP Grace O’Sullivan , who is a member of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with Palestine, said,
“In saying that the Parliament only supports a ceasefire on the condition that Hamas is eliminated essentially hands the far-right Israeli government a blank cheque to continue the bombardment of Gaza for as long as they want.”
“Once again the EU has failed to provide any leadership on the Israeli onslaught on the Gazan civilian population.
“Conservative groups, including the EPP (Fine Gael’s political group at EU level), have played a consistent role as an obstacle to peace.
“We need a braver EU that is willing to stand against the worst humanitarian crisis of our time and call loud and clear for a permanent ceasefire without taking sides. This is a dark day for the European peace project.”
The resolution is of course non-binding and no action will be taken. Israel will no doubt ignore it but pride itself that it still commands significant control over EU politicians and will get to work on the 312 who didn't vote for continued genocide.
Many EU politicians are controlled by Israel and their own war industries who profit from conflict and are all too happy to support genocide if it increases returns to shareholders.
Ending fascist Israel's atrocities will require more than non-binding resolutions and calls for a ceasefire.