Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez unveiled a package of nine measures designed to pressure Israel and halt what he described as the “genocide in Gaza.”
The steps include an arms embargo on Israel and a ban preventing ships carrying fuel for the Israeli military from docking in Spanish ports.
The announcement underscores Spain’s growing role as one of Europe’s most outspoken critics of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has been ongoing since Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel in October 2023.
While other European governments have expressed concern over civilian casualties, Madrid has taken a more assertive stance by translating rhetoric into concrete restrictions.
Among the measures announced were tighter export controls, diplomatic outreach within the European Union to encourage similar policies, and expanded humanitarian support for Palestinians.
The government also said it would explore legal avenues to hold those responsible for war crimes accountable under international law.
The decision is likely to fuel tensions between Spain and Israel, whose leaders have already exchanged sharp words in recent months.
Israel has repeatedly defended its operations as necessary for its security, while critics accuse it of using disproportionate force in Gaza, where civilian suffering has mounted.
By implementing these steps, the Sanchez administration has positioned Spain as a leading European voice calling for stronger international intervention in the conflict.
The measures may inspire debates within the EU and beyond, as governments weigh balancing strategic ties with Israel against mounting public pressure to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.