The sole superpower
…The Americans and Europeans had, until recently, unofficially divided their responsibilities in the Middle East. The USA, apart from its mediating role, also undertook the major responsibility of providing Israel with political support and military equipment, while the Europeans shouldered most of the burden of economic aid to the Palestinians… and, simultaneously, they both tried to boost peace and growth in the region. The limitations to this division of responsibilities has once again become clear. The pictures depicting Israeli tanks demolishing buildings that have been built with money from European taxpayers were blatantly revealing: When weapons are to be heard, Europe remains mute. This was also demonstrated during the Yugoslavia crisis. Today, there is only one superpower. It may listen to the opinions of its friends and allies, but its views and decisions are rarely influenced. This is what is understood by versatility in international relations these days. US President George W. Bush has called upon all of us to join the war against terrorism… However, is the military occupation of Palestinian territory and the deprivation of basic human rights not an extreme form of terrorism? And what will be the repercussions for the broader region should the cycle of violence continue? The sole superpower certainly has responsibilities. As for the Europeans, it seems that they will continue, helplessly, to bite their lips.
