Eurotopics.net

While the UN Security Council was still unable to agree on a joint statement in its fourth emergency session on the conflict over Gaza, individual international players have taken action. The US has called on Israel to de-escalate, China has invited both parties to negotiations, and Turkey's President Erdoğan has raked Israel and the West over the coals. Europe's press comments.

Joe Biden has announced that the US will not impose sanctions on the operator of Nord Stream 2 for the time being. He justified the decision pointing to overriding national interests such as maintaining good relations with Germany. The controversial new pipeline is set to begin transporting gas from Russia to Germany this summer. Observers say this is by no means the end of the issue.

As the situation escalates in the Middle East, Europe has seen a spate of anti-Israeli demonstrations and anti-Semitic attacks in recent days. Commentators voice concern and discuss strategies to combat anti-Semitism.

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg has warned Romania not to undermine progress made in the area of the rule of law. The ECJ's judges have concluded in several rulings that judicial reforms carried out between 2017 and 2019 at least convey the impression of putting political pressure on Romanian judges. The Romanian press voices approval.

France has lifted further restrictions in accordance with its phased reopening plan for the easing of anti-Covid lockdown measures, which began on May 3. The outdoor areas of restaurants and cafes, as well as shops and cultural institutions were allowed to reopen on Wednesday. The country's 7-day incidence rate is currently at 149 (as of 20 May). Commentators are encouraged.