The European Union’s response to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been marked by mixed messages and conflicting views among member states, leading to criticism and confusion. EU leaders are now aiming to project a united front by backing a call for humanitarian pauses in the fighting, in order to secure the release of European hostages held by Hamas. However, there are differing opinions on the nature of these pauses, with some countries advocating for shorter breaks rather than a singular ceasefire. The EU’s executive has also faced criticism for its handling of the conflict, with accusations of double standards in its support for Israel and its failure to connect with the Palestinian Authority.