Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez: Let us not allow a new 'Gaza' to happen in Lebanon

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who has stood out for his harsh criticism of Israel's attacks on the Gaza Strip, Iran, and Lebanon, made a statement regarding EU-Israel relations.

Speaking at an event organized by the US-based news site Politico in Barcelona, Spain, Sanchez called on European countries to "dream big," stating that they must not only defend their own interests but also assume a role of "moral leadership" in an increasingly turbulent world.

Sanchez said, "The challenge facing Europe is not just to rearm itself to solve security and defense problems, but also to rearm itself morally so that it can contribute to stable and peaceful development in the world."

"The Union must suspend cooperation agreements with Israel"

While calling on European countries to strengthen EU defense through various joint projects, Sanchez emphasized that the union must adopt more decisive moral stances at the global level. In this regard, the Spanish leader stated that it is imperative for Brussels to suspend its cooperation agreement with Israel due to its "clear" disregard for international law.

Referring to Israel's recent attacks on Lebanon and its offensive on the Gaza Strip that began on October 7, 2023, Sanchez said, "Let us not allow a new 'Gaza' to happen in Lebanon. Because Europe must act consistently in the face of clear violations of international humanitarian law."

"At a time when the US is withdrawing from international cooperation, Europe must fill this void"

The Spanish Prime Minister said that at a time when the US is retreating from international cooperation, Europe is obligated to fill this void. In this context, Sanchez stated that Spain is positioning itself as a leader within the EU that the remaining countries should follow.