European Parliament Pushes to Halt PA Funding Due to Antisemitic Textbooks

The European Parliament has taken a significant step toward freezing 20 million euros ($22 million) in aid to the Palestinian Authority (PA), following concerns over antisemitic material in Palestinian school textbooks. On Wednesday, the Foreign Affairs Committee gave its preliminary approval to suspend the funds, pending further votes in the parliament. This decision marks a potential shift in the European Union's approach, signaling that years of mere rhetoric on the issue could be giving way to concrete action.

Lukas Mandl, an Austrian Member of European Parliament (MEP) who proposed the amendment, emphasized the importance of this move. He noted that erasing antisemitism from educational materials is a critical first step toward establishing a stable civil society in the Palestinian territories. "This is essential for creating conditions that lead to zero tolerance for terrorism, ensuring peace, democracy, and security for Israel," Mandl said. His proposal not only addresses education reform but also stresses the importance of demilitarizing the region as part of long-term stability.

The motion passed with a close 36-30 vote in the Foreign Affairs Committee. Next, it will face another vote in the budget committee, followed by a final plenary vote in October. If passed, it would likely affect the 2025 EU budget, making it a major turning point in how the EU handles its financial aid to the PA.

Dutch MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen called the vote a "good first step," especially given past failures to hold the PA accountable for antisemitic content in its educational curriculum. Ruissen is hopeful that this decision will lead to lasting change and be included in future EU budgets.

Leo van Doesburg, Europe Director of the Israel Allies Foundation, welcomed the committee's decision, calling it a "commendable first step" in tackling the larger issue of radicalization in Palestinian society. He believes that without addressing the root causes of extremism, peace will remain out of reach.

Marcus Sheff, CEO of IMPACT-se, a research organization that monitors educational materials for compliance with UNESCO standards, expressed frustration over the European Union's inaction until now. He noted that the PA had promised to reform its textbooks, but little progress has been made. "Despite years of assurances to the EU, the content in Palestinian textbooks continues to incite violence and hatred," Sheff said. However, he also praised the committee's recent decision as a positive development, particularly in light of the October 7 events, where education played a role in fueling violence.

In contrast, Sheff pointed out that Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in this area. A recent study found that the Kingdom has nearly eliminated all antisemitic and anti-Israel content from its schoolbooks, showing that educational reform is possible when there is genuine political will.

This pivotal moment in the European Parliament demonstrates the growing recognition of the harmful role that incitement in education plays in prolonging the conflict. As the vote progresses through the parliamentary process, it will be closely watched, both in Israel and across Europe, for its potential to reshape EU policy towards the Palestinian Authority.

Israel's future depends not only on security but also on truth and education. By standing firm against antisemitism, the European Parliament is helping pave the way toward a more peaceful future. Share this story to help spread awareness, or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on key issues affecting Israel and its allies.