At the recent NATO meeting, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez highlighted the importance of the international community addressing what he views as double standards in the Gaza and Ukraine wars. He urged the European Union (EU) to take a more connected and strong position on the situation in Gaza, condemning the EU’s inconsistent approach in comparison to its response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Sánchez emphasized the significance of preserving international law and asked the EU to take stronger action against Israel for its treatment of Palestinians, including potential measures to pressure Israel into line with international legal standards.
“If we tell our people that we are supporting Ukraine because we are defending international law, this is the same thing we must do with Gaza,” he said during NATO’s 75th anniversary conference in Washington.
Sánchez called for an international peace summit to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian issue through a two-state solution. He highlighted that such a meeting should focus worldwide efforts on achieving a comprehensive peace show between Israel and Palestinians. At the European Council conference in Brussels, he repeated the need for a ceasefire or, at the very least, a humanitarian stop in Gaza to allow crucial relief to be delivered to the Palestinian people. He emphasized the severe humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly the impact on children and the total lack of essential amenities.
Furthermore, Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, condemned the EU for not taking a firmer position against Israel’s activities in Gaza. He highlighted Israel’s clear violations of international law, such as the systematic destruction of infrastructure and a lack of relief. Albares pointed out the necessity for the EU to act together and pressure Israel to comply with international legal standards. The request for a more balanced and principled approach mirrors Spain’s overall international position, which also includes backing the recognition of the Palestinian state.
