In a fiery speech to supporters in southern Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez vowed to lead a charge within the European Union to sever ties with Israel through its association agreement. The proposal, set for submission on Tuesday, accuses Israel of repeated breaches of international law, rendering the 2000 pact obsolete.
Sanchez, who has been unrelenting in his condemnation since the Iran conflict erupted, painted Israel as incompatible with EU values. His government points to military actions in Lebanon—including a deadly April 8 operation—as evidence of lawlessness. Previously, he used X to demand suspension of the deal and protested attacks on UN peacekeepers by calling in Israeli envoys.
Spain’s diplomatic posture has hardened dramatically. Foreign Minister Albares, addressing parliament, decried aggressive strikes as attacks on civilized principles, advocating for reason and peace instead. This aligns with Madrid’s refusal to allow US warplanes through its skies, underscoring a principled stand against escalation.
The rally in Andalusia marked a pivotal moment, with Sanchez framing the initiative as a moral imperative. ‘We will ask the EU to break the association agreement with Israel,’ he proclaimed, galvanizing his base. As Europe grapples with divisions over the Middle East, Spain’s push could spark debate on accountability and partnerships.
Success hinges on gaining traction among EU peers, many of whom value economic links with Israel. Yet Sanchez’s persistence highlights growing calls for reevaluation, potentially heralding a new era in transatlantic and European foreign policy.
