Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticized EU colleagues for not suspending a trade deal with Israel following a scathing review of Israel’s human rights record in Gaza, where over 55,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed in the last 18 months amid ongoing conflict with Hamas. An EU report indicated Israel’s violations of human rights obligations and suggested that the situation qualifies as genocide, which Israel denies, framing it as a response to Hamas terrorism.
Sanchez pointed out the EU’s sanctions against Russia and argued for consistency in addressing human rights violations. While Spain and Ireland advocate for suspending contracts with Israel, countries like Greece, Germany, and Hungary remain strong allies of Israel. Discussions on an arms embargo and additional sanctions on Israel are ongoing, but a lack of consensus within the EU hampers progress.
EU officials emphasize that the aim of potential sanctions is to improve conditions in Gaza rather than to punish Israel, but immediate action seems unlikely. Recent shifts in sentiment among some EU member states towards Israel have been tempered by renewed tensions in the region, leaving the EU’s stance divided on the issue.
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