Europe, the United States and the Middle East Peace: Differences and Challenges

The difference between the US and EU in views toward the Middle East peace process is rooted in the clash of interests found between the two parties and the different backgrounds of their presence in the region. Thus, the United States focuses largely on the peace process per se between Arabs and Israel and the two parties’ determination rather than the result of the process, whereas emphasizing the achievement of a positive result, Europe seeks to play a more active role in the region and to eradicate US monopoly. Disagreement between the European Union and the United States is entirely evident in the two parties’ positions particularly within the Venice and Luxembourg declarations. Referring to the background of the subject, this article examines the points of difference and divergence within the two powers’ attitudes and the reasons thereof. It also assesses their capacities and capabilities for the accomplishment of their ends.