ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the European Union's (EU's) use of soft power, with regard to influencing regional stability in the Middle East, whether it offers a viable alternative to the United State's traditional use of hard power. It concludes with an assessment of the EU's overall approach to the Middle East. Europe's approach to the Middle East has had several components, including Euro-Arab dialogue, increased institutional links by means of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and a broad relationship with the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Palestinians had a right to self-determination and that the Palestine Liberation Organization would have to partake in any peace process, which the Israelis vehemently opposed. Europe has had a long history of involvement in the Arab-Israeli peace process and has sought increased participation since the 1991 Gulf War. Iran provides issues on which American and European methods diverge dramatically. In June 2004, Europe agreed to a strategy toward Iraq that, after 2006, would lead to a trade agreement.
