'Mood shifting' in Europe: Public opinion and governments 'turning against Israel'

Oliver Farry is pleased to welcome Dr. Maya Sion-Tzidkiyahu, Israeli political scientist and Director of the Israel–Europe Relations Program at Mitvim Institute. The relationship between Israel and Europe is becoming increasingly complex, explains Dr. Sion-Tzidkiyahu. While the United States remains Israel’s primary strategic ally, Europe continues to play a decisive role economically, diplomatically, and symbolically. She highlights a growing divergence between Israeli governmental attitudes and shifting European political and public sentiment. She argues that Israel’s longstanding tendency, particularly under Prime Minister Netanyahu, to downplay European criticism is strategically short-sighted. As European governments and public opinion gradually align in a more critical stance, Israel faces not only diplomatic friction but also potential economic and cultural fallout. Understanding these dynamics is essential for anticipating the trajectory of Israel–EU relations in the coming years.