Israel 'biggest threat' to peace

2003-11-03 15:16

Brussels - Europeans believe Israel poses the biggest threat to world peace, just ahead of North Korea, Iran and the US, according to the results of an EU poll released today, which has sparked outrage from Israeli authorities.

Some 59% of Europeans replied 'yes' when asked whether or not Israel presents a threat to peace in the world, said the Eurobarometer survey, presented by the Brussels commission.

Israel reacted to the poll even before it was formally released -after the Spanish daily El Pais published leaked details from it last week - saying it is proof that anti-Semitism lies behind political criticism of Israel.

"The European Union, which shows sensitivity on human rights issues, would do well to stop the rampant brainwashing against and demonizing of Israel before Europe deteriorates once again to dark sections of its past," said Israeli diaspora affairs minister Nathan Sharansky.

The European Commission said Israel's reaction is "legitimate", but otherwise refused any further comment on the poll results, beyond repeating that EU policies are not affected by such poll findings.

"I think the reaction was a very legitimate reaction," said spokesman Gerassimos Thomas, while adding: "It is not our task to interpret each and every survey."

The Israeli ambassador to Italy - which currently holds the EU presidency - said in an interview with the daily Il Messagero that the poll could have significant diplomatic consequences.

"It seems to me that the only aim of this poll was to denigrate Israel at a very delicate time, and I think it will (be) much more difficult for Europe to fulfil its ambition to play a part in the peace process," said Ehud Gol.

- AFX