This is to say nothing of unofficial Europe, where calls for boycotts of Israel remain unhindered and a whole literature devoted to delegitimising and demonising Israel is flourishing. This contempt for Israel finds its roots in anti-Westernism, in post-colonial guilt, and in the new post-nationalist and post-faith ideology of Europe’s elites.

Europeans do see Israel as the embodiment of the demons of their own past. But to many, Israel has also been presented as the cause of radical Islamic grievance and therefore of terrorism. Commitments to its defence therefore cause discomfort — if not utter consternation. With all the trouble Israel is accused of causing, is it any wonder that even decent people might wish it away?

They should know better. A recent message by Osama bin Laden voiced dark threats against Europe — on account, not of Israel, but of the reprinting of the Danish cartoons: “If there is no check on the freedom of your words, then let your hearts be open to the freedom of our actions.” Freedom of speech, including the freedom to deride cherished religious beliefs, remains central to Europe’s identity. That is what radical Islam wants Europe to renounce. And that is the meaning of reaffirming Europe’s commitment to Israel: a commitment to our European values and a refusal to compromise them, in the name of convenience or misguided ideology.