Spain seeks immediate suspension of EU association pact with 'Israel'

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
23 Jun 2025 11:44
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Spain calls on the EU to push for an arms embargo over Gaza human rights violations.

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Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares Bueno speaks with the media as he arrives for a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the European Council building in Brussels, Monday, June 23, 2025 (AP)

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares announced Monday that Spain will formally request the European Union Council to immediately suspend the bloc's association agreement with "Israel" over what he described as serious human rights violations in Gaza.

Speaking to reporters, Albares said Madrid will also propose an arms embargo on weapons sold to "Israel" and advocate for sanctions targeting individuals "undermining the two-state solution."

"We cannot look the other way," Albares stated. "The EU must act when grave violations of international humanitarian law are taking place."

This move marks a significant escalation in Spain's diplomatic response to the ongoing Israeli military genocide in Gaza. Madrid has repeatedly condemned the Israeli aggression, urging accountability and a stronger European stance.

According to Albares, the proposal will be tabled at the next EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting.

Wider context

The association agreement in question forms the legal basis for political and economic cooperation between the EU and "Israel". Suspending it would signal mounting European concern over the conduct of Israeli occupation forces in Gaza.

Albares emphasized the importance of upholding international law and protecting civilians. "If we want to preserve the two-state solution and support peace, then we must act accordingly," he said.

The proposed EU arms embargo and sanctions reflect growing demands within Europe for concrete measures in response to ongoing genocide in Gaza, where over 55,000 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children.

In short, Spain’s initiative is likely to deepen debate within the EU over its relationship with "Israel" and could place pressure on other member states to take a firmer stance on Gaza human rights violations.