Spain and Germany differ in the assessment of Israel's actions. The voices of criticism are heard
“We are very concerned about the humanitarian situation and the land invasion in the Gaza Strip,” said Merz during his first visit to the Spanish capital as a German chancellor.
During a press conference jointly with Sanchez, he emphasized that The issue of recognition of Palestine is currently not the subject of debate in Germany. According to him, this should be the last step on the way to resolving the conflict in the Middle East.
Continued article under video material
Although, according to Merz, Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip are not proportional to the declared goals, then Germany does not treat them as “genocide”. Chancellor added that Berlin has still not decided whether to support sanctions against Tel Aviv; This is to happen before the October EU summit in Copenhagen.
The European Commission proposes to impose sanctions on Israel
On Wednesday, the European Commission proposed to suspend free trade with Israel in connection with the situation in the Gaza Strip. He also wants, among others placing two Israeli ministers on the EU black list. These proposals require the consent of EU countries.
Spain, which, together with Ireland and Norway, recognized Palestine as a state in May 2024, occupies a more severe position than Germany towards Israel. A week beforeand the government in Madrid consistently calls for a two -state solution in the Middle East.
Last week, the Spanish Prime Minister announced a total embargo for the supply of weapons for Israel. He also appealed for the exclusion of Israeli players from international sports competitions.
Fighting in the Gaza Strip began with Hamas attack to southern Israel on October 7, 2023, as a result of which about 1.2 thousand died. people and 251 were abducted. Consequently, at least 65,000 were killed by the retaliation of the Israeli army. Palestinians.
