NextFin news, On Tuesday, the Spanish government in Madrid declared its intention to approve a Royal Decree Law next week that will establish a permanent arms embargo against Israel. This decision aims to legally ban the purchase and sale of weapons, ammunition, and military equipment to Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The announcement comes as part of a series of measures by Spain to respond to the Gaza crisis, including banning aircraft transiting Spanish airspace carrying defense equipment to Israel and prohibiting ships supplying fuel to Israeli armed forces from entering Spanish ports.
Spain's Ministry of Defense confirmed the cancellation of a €697 million contract for the High Mobility Rocket Launcher System (SILAM), developed from Israeli technology, aligning with the embargo plans. Additionally, a €285 million contract for Israeli Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles was suspended earlier this year.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has emphasized the government's determination to stop what it describes as "genocide in Gaza," pursuing perpetrators and supporting the Palestinian population. The embargo is part of nine actions announced by the government to address the situation.
The diplomatic fallout has been significant, with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accusing Sánchez of antisemitism and barring two senior Spanish officials from entering Israel. Spain has also temporarily recalled its ambassador to Israel in response to tensions.
Despite pressure from left-wing parties to take even stronger measures, the Spanish government has sought to maintain diplomatic relations while advancing the embargo. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría stated that the embargo decree requires careful legal wording and assured that it would be implemented as soon as possible next week.
The arms embargo and related measures reflect Spain's position on the conflict and its commitment to a two-state solution, as reiterated by Spanish officials. The government continues to call for respect for humanitarian aid efforts, including support for flotillas sailing to Gaza.
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