Spain will propose that the European Union terminate its Association Agreement with Israel, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said on Sunday, citing concerns over compliance with international law.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Gibraleon in southern Spain ahead of regional elections in Andalusia, Sánchez stated that countries which violate international law and the principles of the European Union should not remain partners of the bloc.
He clarified that Spain’s position was not directed against the Israeli people, stressing that Spaniards maintain friendly relations with them. However, he said Madrid disagrees with the policies and actions of the Israeli government.
The Spanish prime minister also reiterated his government’s opposition to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, calling it a “major mistake,” according to remarks reported by state media agency Xinhua.
Spain has adopted a more assertive stance in recent months on Middle East developments, consistently calling for stronger adherence to international law and multilateral frameworks in European Union foreign policy.
The EU-Israel Association Agreement, in force since 2000, provides the legal foundation for trade and cooperation between both sides. Sánchez’s proposal is expected to trigger debate within the bloc over its future direction in relations with Israel amid the ongoing regional conflict.