Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced a series of measures against Israel today, including a permanent arms embargo and a ban on ships and aircraft carrying weapons to Israel using Spanish ports or airspace. The measures come amid escalating tensions over the situation in Gaza, where Sánchez described the actions of the Israeli government as "genocide."
In addition to the arms embargo, Spain will impose an embargo on goods produced in Israeli settlements and has instituted an entry ban for individuals identified as perpetrators of violence in Gaza. The Spanish government also pledged €150 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza, to be disbursed by 2026, marking a significant commitment to support the region during this ongoing crisis.
Israel condemned Spain"s actions as "antisemitic" and "anti-Israeli," leading to an immediate response that includes banning Spanish ministers from entering the country. This diplomatic fallout highlights the growing divide between Spain and Israel, particularly in light of the recent surge in violence in Gaza.
The implications of these measures could extend beyond bilateral relations, potentially influencing Spain"s role within the European Union regarding Middle Eastern policies. As previously reported, many European nations have struggled to navigate the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and Spain"s recent developments could signal a shift in the EU"s overall stance.
