"A Call for Justice: Europe’s Responsibility to Stand for Peace in Palestine"

"You destroy my house, steal my land, kill my mother, and starve us all, but I am to blame for my resistance." This powerful sentiment encapsulates the ongoing plight of the Palestinian people under occupation, where resistance to injustice is often criminalized. It is not merely a cry for sympathy, but a plea for accountability in the face of overwhelming suffering. The violence inflicted upon Palestinian communities is undeniable, and standing against it should not be met with repression, but with international solidarity.

As the flames of conflict continue to burn, it is clear that much of the global response, particularly from Europe, has been marked by hesitation and fear. Many governments either prefer to remain silent, hoping to avoid political fallout, or worse, choose the easier path of siding with blind hate, enabling the continued cycle of violence.

This is where the European Union must stand tall. As one of the world's most influential political blocs, the EU can and must play a decisive role in ending the violence against Palestinians. The Union has an opportunity to push beyond rhetoric and press for meaningful, sustained peace efforts—efforts that must counterbalance the significant influence of the US on this issue.

With the upcoming grilling of Europe’s next foreign affairs leaders, Kallas and Lahbib, by the European Parliament, we are at a critical juncture. These Commissioners have the potential to be the new champions of justice for Palestine. But this will only happen if we, the people, make our voices heard.

We must demand that Kallas and Lahbib commit to concrete action within their first 100 days—action that prioritizes peace and puts an end to the violence not only in Palestine but also in Lebanon. This is our chance to push for an EU foreign policy that upholds human rights, dignity, and peace.

Let us rally, from the streets to the halls of the European Parliament, and ensure that our representatives know we stand for peace and justice. By taking a few moments to communicate with our elected officials, we can help shape a future where violence and oppression in Palestine are no longer tolerated. The time for action is now, and together, we can demand that our leaders choose the path of peace.