Ireland and Spain want the EU to exert more pressure on Israel
BRUSSELS (ANP) – The chance of a strong closing statement from the EU summit, let alone concrete actions, is negligible. A number of member states, including Germany, do not want to take a hard stance against Israel due to the violation of human rights in Gaza.
“I will tell my European colleagues that the European population finds it incomprehensible that Europe seems unable to exert pressure on Israel and influence Israel to stop this war in Gaza, to stop the ongoing slaughter of children and innocent civilians,” said Martin.
Sánchez stated that there is a “catastrophic situation of genocide” in Gaza. He wants the EU to immediately suspend the association agreement with Israel. This was also proposed by the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs José Manuel Albares on Monday in a meeting with the EU foreign ministers. Ireland also wants this, but knows that it is not feasible. Approval from all 27 member states is required for that.
According to the Irish Prime Minister, parts of the association agreement can also be suspended. No unanimity is needed for that. It is also possible to consider imposing sanctions on settlers in the West Bank and on the Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, as some countries have already done.
(June 26, 2025)
