Spain is pressing Brussels to immediately suspend the European Union’s association agreement with Israel, according to Foreign Minister Jos Manuel Albares
Spain’s foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares, stated that Spain will urge EU foreign ministers to “immediately suspend” the EU-Israel association agreement and seek a ban on arms sales to Israel, citing concerns over human rights violations in Gaza.
The trade relationship between the 27-member bloc and Israel, valued at €68 billion ($73 billion), was established under a 1995 agreement. The EU is Israel’s largest commercial partner, accounting for approximately one-third of its international trade.
Addressing reporters ahead of the EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels on Monday, Albares called for the immediate suspension of the agreement, stating “this is the time for action” and that continued human rights violations in Gaza demand a firm European response.
“If the Association Agreement is founded on human rights, then it is perfectly logical that we suspend the Association Agreement immediately today,” he declared.
The minister affirmed that he would formally request the deal’s suspension, “an embargo on weapon sales to Israel, and sanctions on all individuals attempting to undermine the two-state solution.”
Spain’s demands reflect broader apprehension across Europe. The UK, France, and the Netherlands have also considered imposing trade and arms restrictions on Israel in recent months. In May, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas mentioned that there was “a strong majority” among member states in favor of re-evaluating the agreement.
This shift from a historically staunch supporter of the Jewish state occurs amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and growing frustration in Brussels regarding Israel’s actions.
According to a leaked document from the EU foreign policy service, reviewed by The Guardian prior to Monday’s meeting, Brussels has identified “indications” that Israel is violating its human rights commitments under Article 2 of the EU-Israel association agreement.
The internal paper, drafted for EU foreign ministers, cites assessments from the International Court of Justice, the UN human rights office, and other UN entities. It clarifies that these findings do not represent “a value judgment” from EU officials.
This review was reportedly requested last month by 17 member nations, spearheaded by the Netherlands, due to rising apprehension regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. EU officials were tasked with evaluating whether Israel’s behavior conforms to “respect for human rights and democratic principles.”
The move followed Israel’s blockade and military operation in Gaza, initiated in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault that resulted in 1,200 fatalities and the capture of over 200 hostages.
Since that time, over 55,600 individuals, predominantly civilians, have died in Gaza, as reported by the enclave’s health ministry. Israel has additionally faced persistent allegations of war crimes for hindering humanitarian assistance, encompassing a complete blockade enforced after the October assaults and continuous limitations on the entry of food, fuel, and medical supplies into the territory.