At the recent EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit, leaders from both blocs tackled one of the most critical global challenges: resolving the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and the broader Israel-Iran tensions. This gathering was not just another routine diplomatic event; it presented a vital opportunity for the EU and GCC to solidify a newly founded strategic partnership aimed at bringing lasting peace to the region.

With the United States facing political gridlock, Russia embroiled in its war with Ukraine, and China hesitant to lead on Middle Eastern issues, a unique vacuum of influence has emerged. This moment presents the EU and GCC with an unprecedented chance to step up as key peace brokers. However, despite its economic might and diplomatic clout, the EU has struggled to capitalize on these opportunities due to a lack of internal cohesion. Similarly, while the GCC holds significant regional influence, it often operates within the US security umbrella, leaving both blocs with challenges to overcome if they are to effectively influence the Middle East peace process.

Though the EU is the world’s third-largest economy after the US and China, it has been hesitant to translate its economic might into global diplomatic influence. Historically, the EU has deferred to US leadership on Middle Eastern issues, often supporting American-led peace initiatives while focusing on humanitarian aid and economic support. Yet, the transitional nature of EU leadership, with several key figures set to leave office soon, has contributed to the bloc’s reluctance to adopt a more assertive role.

That being said, recent developments in Brussels indicate a shift in thinking. At the EU-GCC summit, both sides agreed on the essential parameters for addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The consensus revolves around supporting United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, particularly Resolution 2735, which calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the provision of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, where a humanitarian catastrophe looms.

Both blocs also reaffirmed their commitment to the Arab Peace Initiative, advocating for a two-state solution that envisions an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders. Their unified stance against settler violence and Israeli unilateral actions in the West Bank marks a significant moment of diplomatic alignment. The recent launch of the “Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution,” co-sponsored by the EU and Saudi Arabia, further underscores this shared commitment to finding a peaceful resolution.

While the EU and GCC have made strides in aligning their positions, achieving any substantial breakthrough will require US involvement. However, the political landscape in Washington complicates this. With a presidential election looming on November 5, the Biden administration is unlikely to exert significant pressure on Israel, particularly given domestic political considerations. Nevertheless, the period between the election and January 20-Biden’s potential last day in office-offers a crucial window. Historically, outgoing US presidents have used this transitional period to push forward Middle East peace initiatives.

Should Biden decide to prioritize Middle East peace during these critical 75 days, he could attempt to broker a ceasefire or lay the groundwork for renewed negotiations. For the EU and GCC, the task is clear: use the time leading up to the election to prepare a comprehensive peace plan that addresses not only immediate concerns, such as the ceasefire and humanitarian aid, but also the underlying root causes of the conflict. This plan must garner international support, rooted in the global consensus already demonstrated through UN resolutions.

For any plan to succeed, it must be both regional and inclusive, addressing the concerns of all relevant stakeholders. Israel’s security concerns must be taken seriously, as must the Palestinian right to full political enfranchisement. Strengthening the Palestinian Authority (PA) is critical. This would enable the PA to deliver basic services, implement political and economic reforms, and function as the governing body of a future Palestinian state.

At the same time, the international community must ensure that incentives and enforcement mechanisms-carrots and sticks-are built into any peace agreement. Without these guarantees, any progress made could quickly unravel. The Arab Peace Initiative already outlines a vision for shared prosperity, a promise that must be communicated to all stakeholders, particularly the ordinary citizens whose livelihoods and futures depend on peace.

A major challenge in any peace plan will be managing Israel’s relations with Iran. Tehran views the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the lens of its broader rivalry with Israel. The resolution of the Palestinian question, especially in the context of broader Arab-Israeli normalization, could be perceived as a threat to Iranian interests. However, there are channels for addressing these concerns.

GCC-Iran diplomatic engagement has increased in recent months. On October 4, the foreign ministers of Iran and the six GCC countries met in Doha, signaling the potential for dialogue. By leveraging these existing diplomatic channels, the GCC could help alleviate Iranian fears that a peace deal would come at Tehran’s expense. More broadly, the GCC’s “Regional Security Vision,” issued in March, includes the possibility of normalization with both Iran and Israel, providing a framework for inclusive peace efforts.

If managed effectively, a peace agreement between Israel and Palestine could serve as a catalyst for easing broader regional tensions. A peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could facilitate normalization between Israel and Iran, thus reducing one of the most volatile fault lines in the region.

To ensure the success of any peace plan, an international conference will be essential. Such a forum would not only rally global support but also help work out the technical details of implementation. International guarantees, monitoring mechanisms, and economic incentives will be key to persuading all sides to stay committed throughout the process.

The Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution offers a promising start, but this initiative will need to be scaled up to achieve lasting peace. The EU and GCC must continue working together, building on the consensus reached at the Brussels summit, to turn this partnership into a driving force for peace in the Middle East.

Of course, obstacles remain. Israel’s current government, dominated by hardline factions, is unlikely to be easily swayed. Iran, too, may resist any initiative that appears to marginalize its role in the region. Nevertheless, the EU and GCC, working with the US, can offer a credible alternative to the endless cycle of violence. Through careful diplomacy, engagement with Iran, and the promotion of shared regional prosperity, they could help turn the tide toward peace.

In an increasingly multipolar world, where traditional power brokers are distracted or unwilling to lead, the EU and GCC have a rare opportunity to shape the future of the Middle East. The question now is whether they will seize it.

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