Damon Mcknight
Austria's vote against a UN resolution for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine in 2023 came as a surprise to many. Austria, a country with a history of far-right politics and a complicated relationship with Israel, was one of only four EU countries to vote against the resolution. The resolution, which demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and compliance with international law, was adopted by the General Assembly with 153 votes in favour and 10 against. Austria's decision to stand with Israel on this vote can be attributed to a combination of historical, political, and economic factors, including a quest for redemption for its role in World War II and the rise of far-right parties within the country.
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What You'll Learn
Austria's history with Israel
Austria and Israel have had a long and complex history, with their relationship evolving significantly over the years. While the two countries have enjoyed periods of close cooperation, there have also been times of tension and conflict. Here is a brief overview of some key moments in their bilateral relations:
The history of Jews in Austria dates back centuries, with evidence of a Jewish presence in the country as early as the 3rd century CE. In the 12th century, a thriving Jewish community had formed in Vienna, and the first documented synagogue in Austria was constructed in 1204. However, this period of relative prosperity and religious freedom for Jews in Austria was followed by increased tensions and hostility from the Christian population and the Catholic Church. In 1420, the Jews were expelled from the Duchy of Austria by Albrecht V of Habsburg, who accused them of collaborating with the Hussites.
During the Holocaust, Austria played a significant role as the birthplace of Adolf Hitler and other perpetrators of the Holocaust. After the Holocaust, Austria served as a hub for Jewish emigration, with about 250,000 to 300,000 displaced persons living in the country until 1955. Many of these individuals eventually immigrated to Israel, with the help of volunteers from Palestine. Despite this connection, Austria's early postwar national identity was built around projecting neutrality on the world stage.
In the 1970s, Austrian Chancellor Bruno Kreisky sought to act as a mediator in the Middle East conflict, calling for a Palestinian state and recognizing the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). This stance caused disputes with Israel, and relations between the two countries became strained. In 1973, a hostage situation further exacerbated tensions when two Palestinian terrorists took four Jewish emigrants captive and issued an ultimatum to the Austrian government, demanding the closure of a transit camp for Soviet Jews. Kreisky's decision to acquiesce to the terrorists' demands drew criticism from Israel and damaged bilateral relations.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Austria took steps towards acknowledging its responsibility for Nazi crimes during World War II. In 1991, Chancellor Franz Vranitzky recognized Austrian co-responsibility for Nazi crimes, and in 1993, he visited Israel and gave a speech at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, apologizing for the Holocaust. These gestures helped to improve relations between the two countries.
In recent years, Austria has moved towards a more explicitly pro-Israel stance, particularly under the leadership of former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. Kurz worked to strengthen ties with Israel, pledging to combat antisemitism and declaring Israel's security a priority for Austria. This shift has been driven by a combination of factors, including a quest for historic redemption and economic opportunity. As a result, Austria is now considered one of the most pro-Israeli countries within the European Union.
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Austria's stance on Israel's right to self-defence
Austria's decision to vote against the ceasefire resolution was surprising to many, given the country's complex history with Israel. Austria, as Hitler's homeland, has been seeking historic redemption and forging closer ties with Israel, driven by economic opportunities. In recent years, Austria has taken steps to strengthen its relationship with Israel, including forming a government with the Freedom Party, which has a history of antisemitic tropes, and pledging to combat antisemitism during its EU presidency.
During the 2023 vote, Austria's Ambassador Alexander Marshik expressed that the resolution fell short in recognising Israel's right to ensure the safety of its citizens and failed to name the terrorist group taking hostages. Austria proposed an amendment to the resolution, which was rejected as it did not garner the required two-thirds majority. This amendment, as introduced by Austria's representative, recognised Israel's right to defend its citizens in line with international law and humanitarian law.
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Austria's far-right politics
The FPÖ's history is steeped in antisemitism, and it has been viewed as a right-wing extremist party due to the presence of many former Nazis in its ranks. Despite rebranding efforts, the party has continued to face criticism for its use of "Nazi jargon" and its opposition to COVID-19 countermeasures and vaccines. By October 2023, the far-right was regularly polling at 30%, indicating a shift in Austrian politics.
In 2017, then-Chancellor Sebastian Kurz formed a government with the FPÖ, raising concerns about a return to Austria's far-right past. Kurz worked to reassure the international community, particularly Israel, of his commitment to combating antisemitism. However, in 2019, the Ibiza affair damaged the FPÖ's reputation when its leader, Heinz-Christian Strache, was caught offering government contracts to a woman posing as a Russian oligarch's relative.
Despite this scandal, Austria's relationship with Israel has strengthened. Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg highlighted their "strategic, extremely close relationship." This shift has been attributed to Austria's reckoning with its World War II history and the pursuit of economic opportunities.
In 2024, Austria, alongside the Czech Republic, voted against a UN resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza conflict, citing concerns for Israel's right to ensure its citizens' safety. This decision highlighted the influence of the far-right in Austrian politics and the country's alignment with Israel.
In February 2025, Austria appeared to be moving away from the far-right, as a new coalition government was formed without the far-right election winner. The Peoples' Party (OeVP), the Social Democrats (SPOe), and NEOS joined forces to create a centrist government, indicating a potential shift away from the far-right in Austrian politics.
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Austria's economic interests
Austria's stance against the UN's resolution for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas is influenced by a combination of factors, including economic interests. Austria's economic ties with Israel play a significant role in shaping its foreign policy decisions.
Austria and Israel have had diplomatic relations since 1950, and their economic relationship has been an important aspect of this. Over the years, Austria has sought to strengthen its economic cooperation with Israel, and this has influenced its position on Middle Eastern conflicts.
The pursuit of economic opportunities is a driving force in Austria's relationship with Israel. Austrian businesses and investors recognize the potential for economic growth and collaboration with Israeli companies, particularly in sectors such as technology, innovation, and startups. Israel's thriving tech industry and entrepreneurial spirit present attractive investment opportunities for Austrian businesses seeking to expand their global reach.
Additionally, Austria has a history of supporting Israel's right to self-defence and security. This alignment of interests contributes to a favourable environment for economic cooperation between the two countries. Austrian companies investing in Israel or seeking to enter joint ventures may view the Austrian government's stance as providing stability and long-term prospects for their ventures.
Furthermore, Austria's stance against the ceasefire may also be influenced by its domestic political considerations. The far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ), founded by SS veterans and former Nazis, has a history of trafficking in antisemitic tropes. However, even the FPÖ has attempted to position itself as pro-Israel, recognizing the importance of Israel as a strategic partner. This shift reflects the understanding that strong ties with Israel can bring economic benefits and contribute to a positive image on the world stage.
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Austria's domestic political considerations
Austria's vote against a ceasefire can be attributed to several domestic political considerations. Firstly, Austria's historical ties to Nazi Germany and its role in the Holocaust have been a source of tension in its relationship with Israel. In recent years, Austria has sought to redeem itself and strengthen ties with Israel, which has resulted in a strategic and extremely close relationship. This relationship has influenced Austria's voting decisions, as they stood with Israel during the UN resolution vote.
Additionally, Austria's government, led by the ÖVP, is facing competition from the far-right FPÖ, which has a history of trafficking in antisemitic tropes. The ÖVP's strong support for Israel could be an attempt to win back voters who are outraged by the increase in antisemitism in Austria. By aligning with Israel, the ÖVP may be trying to portray itself as a strong opponent of antisemitism and thereby gain political support.
Moreover, Austria's far-right Freedom Party, founded by SS veterans, has dominated the country's politics in recent years. This party's influence may have contributed to Austria's decision to vote against the resolution, as they prioritised Israel's right to defend its citizens and criticised the resolution for not condemning Hamas explicitly.
Austria's domestic political landscape, shaped by the presence of far-right parties and a quest for historical redemption, has influenced its stance on the ceasefire resolution. The ÖVP's strategic calculations and attempts to appeal to voters likely played a role in their decision to vote against the ceasefire.
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Frequently asked questions
Austria is against a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine due to its close relationship with Israel.
The conflict has led to at least 18,000 deaths, predominantly women and children, and displaced 1.9 million people.
Austria and Israel have had a complex relationship since they established diplomatic ties in 1950. Austria has been seeking historic redemption and economic opportunities through its relationship with Israel.
The EU has been divided in its response to the conflict. While a majority of EU members voted for a ceasefire, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Croatia voted against it.
Domestic political considerations, including the rise of far-right parties and concerns about antisemitism, have influenced Austria's stance. Strongly supporting Israel may be an attempt to appeal to voters outraged by increasing antisemitism in the country.
