BRUSSELS — Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar met with European Union leaders in Brussels on Monday, amid growing criticism in Europe over Israel's refusal to engage in talks on the second phase of the agreement with Hamas and its decision not to withdraw from five strategic outposts in southern Lebanon.
Ahead of the meeting, which was set to focus on Gaza reconstruction, Israeli-Palestinian relations and other issues, Saar told Al-Monitor he was confident that a constructive and productive dialogue would take place. He added, “There are many opinions within the EU, not one. There are member states who are very friendly to us; others less friendly. But all in all, this meeting proves there is willingness on both sides to renew a working relationship.”
However, the issue of the Palestinian Authority’s involvement in the future governance of Gaza remains a significant point of contention. While Saar dismissed any possibility of the Palestinian Authority's participation under current conditions, EU representatives maintained that Gaza’s reconstruction would be impossible without the Palestinian Authority’s involvement.
A European source, speaking to Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity, noted that Saar appeared “less aggressive” regarding the continuation of the Gaza war and Israel’s military actions in the West Bank compared to his stance two weeks earlier during a meeting in Jerusalem with EU ambassadors. The source said Saar’s softened tone signaled a "willingness to open a dialogue," although deep disagreements are expected to persist.
In a press conference following the meeting, Saar stated, "I believe that what we have begun today, if we continue to foster it with the right spirit of partnership, mutual respect and honesty, can help us successfully address the challenges ahead."
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