What happened
A major European Parliament faction, Patriots for Europe, has formally backed Israel, recognizing Jerusalem's rights in Judea and Samaria. The group, which has 86 seats across 14 national delegations, also adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance charter against antisemitism.
The move comes as a response to mounting European boycott campaigns and anti-settlement sanctions, which the group slammed as antisemitism driven by double standards. The endorsement is seen as a crucial lifeline for the Jewish state, particularly in the face of hostility from leftist diplomats in Europe.
The UK, along with 11 other nations, had recently demanded that Israel halt construction in Judea and Samaria, sparking fury in Jerusalem. Israeli officials warned of retaliation against the UK, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich calling for the expulsion of the British ambassador.
The US has also weighed in, with Florida GOP Rep. Randy Fine warning that entities participating in anti-Israel boycotts could face significant economic penalties under Florida law. The move by Patriots for Europe is seen as a significant shift in the European political landscape, with potential electoral repercussions for anti-Israel schemers.
