|
Israel 'biggest
threat' to peace
03/11/2003
15:16 - (SA)
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.
| 