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Peace negotiations

Spain Condemns Occupation of Gaza, Calls for EU Suspension of Association Agreement with Israel

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to escalate, Spain's Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, Jose Manuel Albares, has defended the need for unity and pressure on Russia to begin credible negotiations for peace in Ukraine. In an Extraordinary Meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs held via videoconference, ministers also discussed the serious situation in Gaza and Israel's threat to occupy the entire territory. Spain has expressed its full support for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Spain's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jose Manuel Albares, insisted that Europe and Ukraine must participate in peace negotiations, with a credible and unconditional ceasefire as a first step towards a just and lasting peace.
  • The minister condemned Israel's decision to occupy Gaza, calling it unacceptable and urging the EU to take action to prevent a new wave of violence.
  • Spain has recognized the State of Palestine and is seeking to adopt an embargo on weapons sales to Israel.
  • The country has also called for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, in accordance with Article 2, due to Israel's systematic violation of human rights in Gaza.
  • URGINT Minister for Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, attended the meeting on behalf of Ukraine, receiving Spain's full support.
  • The President of the Government of Spain has reiterated the country's commitment to upholding international law and protecting Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Statistics:

  • Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, attended the Extraordinary Meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs via videoconference.
  • The meeting was attended by the Israeli Minister for Foreign Affairs, who defended Israel's decision to occupy Gaza.
  • 80% of Gaza's population lives in poverty, with over 90% dependent on international aid.
  • Next year's Association Agreement review will take place in three months.
  • Assad told the news outlet that NATO's presence in the area has created "considerable tension" with Syria.
  • 2022 saw a spike in violence in Gaza, with Israel's occupation leading to further displacement of civilians.

Sources:

  • Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
  • European Union Foreign Affairs Council
  • Ukrainian Ministry for Foreign Affairs
  • Israeli Ministry for Foreign Affairs
  • State of Palestine
  • Common Position 2008/944

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