Spain allocates half a million euros for Gaza human rights investigations

Monday 05 May 2025 - 10:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Spain allocates half a million euros for Gaza human rights investigations

José Manuel Albares, the minister of foreign affairs, european union and cooperation, addressed the foreign affairs committee in the congress of deputies on May 5, 2025, in Madrid. This appearance, delayed by a week due to a widespread blackout, was intended to discuss the new foreign action plan for 2025-2028, recently approved by the government. During his remarks, Albares announced an additional one million euros to fund investigations into human rights violations in Gaza.

"To ensure accountability, we will support the united nations high commissioner for human rights in enhancing their investigative efforts regarding human rights violations and war crimes in Gaza. To bolster their investigative capabilities, Spain will make a new voluntary contribution of half a million euros, complementing previous contributions," he stated before parliamentary representatives.

This announcement follows a diplomatic crisis with Israel, which erupted just days prior when the Spanish government canceled a significant contract for ammunition from an Israeli company intended for the interior ministry.

"The situation in Gaza is utterly unacceptable," Albares asserted during his testimony, condemning Israel's blockade that has hindered humanitarian aid from entering the region for seven weeks, leading to unprecedented famine. He reiterated the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to be allowed into Gaza and emphasized Spain's continued support for the united nations, particularly the united nations relief and works agency for palestine refugees (unrwa), along with the palestinian authority and local non-governmental organizations.

Additionally, the head of Spanish diplomacy addressed relations with Morocco, describing them as "the best in our history." He highlighted the recent opening of commercial customs in Ceuta and Melilla, although this initiative has faced ongoing challenges due to consistent obstacles from Rabat, causing frustration among business owners in the autonomous cities.