Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for the immediate suspension of the European Union's Association Agreement with Israel, citing the ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip.

In a powerful address to the Spanish Parliament on Friday, Sánchez condemned Israel’s actions, describing them as “one of the darkest chapters of the 21st century.”

Sánchez highlighted a prior request made by Spain and Ireland in February 2024, urging the EU to review Israel’s compliance with the EU-Israel Association Agreement. The agreement, signed in 1995 and effective since 2000, is grounded in mutual respect for human rights as outlined in Article 2. A June 23 report by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas found “more than sufficient evidence” of Israel’s violation of this article.

Despite this, Sánchez criticized the EU for failing to take concrete action against Israel. “No one who tramples on the founding principles of the European Union and uses starvation as a weapon to eliminate a legitimate state—Palestine—can be considered a partner of the EU,” he stated. He further warned against complicity through “indifference, hesitation, or political calculations” in what he called “the greatest genocide of this century.”

The EU-Israel Association Agreement governs political dialogue, trade, and cooperation between the EU and Israel. Sánchez’s call marks a significant escalation in Spain’s stance on the issue, pressing for immediate action to address Israel’s violations. (ILKHA)