🇪🇸 Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a bold move this Sunday: his government will formally propose ending the EU's 26-year-old Association Agreement with Israel this Tuesday. The deal, active since 2000, forms the legal backbone of EU-Israel trade relations.
🔥 At a campaign rally in Andalusia, Sanchez declared: "Those who violate international law cannot be EU partners" – a clear critique of Israel's recent actions. But he clarified: "This isn't against Israeli people… we disagree with their government's actions."
🌍 The PM also criticized the US-Israel stance against Iran, calling it "a major mistake" amid rising Middle East tensions. Spain has recently emerged as a vocal advocate for international law in EU foreign policy, with this proposal marking its most dramatic policy shift to date.
📅 The timing is strategic – Andalusia's regional elections loom, and Sanchez's progressive coalition aims to solidify support among left-wing voters. Critics argue this could strain EU unity, while supporters hail it as a moral stand.
💡 Why it matters: This move could reshape Europe's economic ties with Israel and test the EU's ability to enforce international law through trade policy. All eyes will be on Brussels this week!
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Spanish PM to propose to EU to end Association Agreement with Israel
cgtn.com
