Spain enforces sweeping measures against Israel over Gaza war

Monday 08 September 2025 - 14:05

By: Dakir Madiha

Spain enforces sweeping measures against Israel over Gaza war

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez unveiled nine decisive measures on Monday aimed at halting what he referred to as the "genocide in Gaza," including an arms embargo on Israel and a ban on vessels carrying fuel for the Israeli military from using Spanish ports.

The announcement underscores Spain's growing criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, which followed Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel in 2023.

A legal framework to support Gaza

In a televised address, Sánchez outlined steps to "stop the genocide in Gaza, pursue its perpetrators, and support the Palestinian population." Among these measures, Spain will implement a legal decree to formalize its existing ban on the sale and purchase of military equipment with Israel, a policy it has adhered to since the start of the conflict.

The measures will also prohibit boats carrying fuel destined for the Israeli military from docking at Spanish ports. Furthermore, Spain intends to reduce the transportation of military supplies to Israel via air routes.

Targeting human rights violations

Sánchez announced that individuals directly involved in acts of genocide, human rights violations, or war crimes in Gaza would be banned from entering Spain. He emphasized Spain’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable under international law.

Additionally, Spain will prohibit the importation of goods produced in "illegal settlements" within the Palestinian territories. This move is aimed at combating the forced displacement of Palestinians and fostering progress toward a two-state solution.

Limited consular services

Spanish citizens residing in illegal Israeli settlements will see their consular services reduced to "the legally obligatory minimum assistance," Sánchez confirmed, reflecting Spain's stance against the settlements' legitimacy.

Humanitarian support for Palestinians

Sánchez highlighted Spain’s plans to bolster humanitarian efforts in Gaza and the West Bank. These include new projects in agriculture, food security, and medical aid in partnership with the Palestinian Authority, as well as increased humanitarian funding for Palestinians.

A leader in European dissent

Sánchez has emerged as one of the most vocal European leaders opposing Israel's military actions in Gaza. Last year, his left-wing government diverged from other European Union allies by officially recognizing a Palestinian state, a move that angered Israel.

The Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures. In retaliation, Israel’s ongoing offensive has resulted in the deaths of at least 64,368 Palestinians, largely civilians, according to data from Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, figures deemed reliable by the United Nations.