Madrid – Spanish Foreign Affairs Minister, José Manuel Albares, emphasized on Friday the necessity for the EU’s member states to approve the sanctions package proposed by Brussels concerning Israel, clarifying that these measures are not against the Jewish state’s existence but rather against the ongoing conflict.
Albares made these remarks while accompanying the Kings on their state visit to Egypt, following German Chancellor Friederich Merz‘s statement that Germany has yet to decide on endorsing the partial suspension of the Association Agreement with Israel.
He expressed, “Our diplomatic efforts are aimed at ensuring that this minimum package of sanctions against Israel, put forward by the Commission, gains the approval of all member states.”
According to him, “there is consensus on the situation in Gaza,” regardless of the terminology used, such as genocide, “and if this is the case, I don’t see why we shouldn’t advance in making a decision.”
He sought to clarify to skeptics that these measures are not directed against Israel’s existence or its people. “They are against the war, the slaughter of Palestinians, and in favor of peace, a goal that should be considered legitimate by any EU member state,” he asserted.
“If we concur on the events taking place, if we agree on their unacceptability, we must align on how to respond,” he argued, highlighting that this is simply the application of the EU’s own regulations.
Time for “concrete decisions”
Albares stressed that the Twenty-Seven must now “make concrete decisions and convey a clear message to Israel.” He reiterated that Israel cannot expect a normal relationship with the EU and its members while events continue to unfold in Gaza.
The minister’s message is aimed at “the Israeli society so that they recognize that the relationship between the Israeli Government and European governments must be founded on respect for Human Rights, a commitment to peace, and adherence to International Law.” (September 19)
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