For Europe, criticising Israel over aid to Gaza is a delicate task

Concerns over anti-Semitism accusations, fresh dispute with Trump keep European leaders' reproach muted

- Jonathan Eyal

LONDON - Britain, France and Canada have intensified their criticism of the Israeli government's actions in Gaza, warning that they will take concrete actions unless Israeli troops "immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza".

The three countries, apart from the US, are considered among Israel's most significant friends. They issued a rare joint statement on May 19 condemning the Israeli government's "denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population" of Gaza as unacceptable and as potentially "breaching international humanitarian law".

This was followed on May 20 by Britain's decision to suspend negotiations on a free trade agreement with Israel.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot also warned that the Association Agreement between the European Union and Israel — a framework document regulating trade between Europe and the Jewish state — could also be called into question.

There is no doubt that, should they wish to take action, the Europeans can inflict a heavy economic cost on Israel.

The Israelis source most of their imported weapons and military technology from the US, but the EU and Britain account for the most significant single share of Israeli trade.

While the outrage at Israel's behaviour felt in most European capitals is genuine, the recent public condemnations reflect Europe's helplessness.

The only country that can have a significant impact on Israeli behaviour is the US.

Although there are many signs of growing US frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies, Washington remains unwilling to transform its differences with Israel into real pressure.

The Israeli government says that aid is now being allowed into the besieged Palestinian territory of Gaza, adding that 93 aid trucks went through on May 20.