The European Union is outlining a ten-point framework meant to deliver a credible and comprehensive resolution to the Middle East conflict. The plan emphasizes the coexistence of two states, Palestine and Israel, and aims to normalize relations between Israel and neighbors in the region. This core concept appears in the first draft prepared for Euractiv by a portal that tracks European Union affairs.
Within this framework, the Palestinian Authority is presented as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank, and the plan proposes excluding Hamas from the process. A roadmap is proposed that begins with a Preparatory Peace Conference, inviting the European Union, the United States, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the Arab League, and the United Nations to participate in shaping the next steps.
The conference participants are described as staying in constant contact with Israeli and Palestinian officials, keeping them apprised of developments and ensuring that the dialogue remains active, even though the initial steps of the plan are not yet considered binding. The goal is to encourage both sides to meet and engage face to face, fostering direct communication.
According to the EU assessment, active participation in formal talks is not expected for about a year following the conference. This year-long horizon is presented as the target for outlining the peace plan, which will be shown as a baseline to the parties in conflict before negotiations move forward toward final text and agreements.
It is noted in the draft that the parties themselves must negotiate the final terms. This emphasis on joint decision-making reflects the EU’s intent to keep the process inclusive and accountable to both sides, with careful consideration of national interests and regional stability.
Another key element highlighted by the draft is the conditioning on robust security guarantees for both Israel and the future independent State of Palestine, alongside a framework for mutual diplomatic recognition and regional integration. The aim is to create a secure environment in which both states can flourish side by side, contributing to broader regional peace and cooperation.
The plan also includes a peace support package described as a collection of political and security mechanisms, designed to be available from the moment the peace agreement is signed. This package would operate on regional and global levels to support the transition and sustain the agreed arrangements.
Current discussions, as reported by Euractiv, show that Sven Koopmans, the EU’s representative for the peace process, has been holding preliminary conversations with Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the Arab League. The intent is to test ideas and consider a potential meeting to discuss the first EU proposal before the broader international conference takes place. These talks emphasize the EU’s commitment to refreshing momentum and seeking practical steps that can help move the process forward while maintaining broad international backing.