Madrid, Feb. 24 (SANA) Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares on Monday called on the European Union to adopt a firmer stance toward Israel amid the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and continued settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank.
In a statement posted on X, Albares said the “killing in Gaza continues, while humanitarian aid remains stuck at border crossings”. He urged that assistance be allowed to reach Palestinian civilians without restrictions.
He added that the EU’s silence regarding what he described as Israeli violations in the West Bank and attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians “is no longer understandable,” noting that the bloc has “political and economic tools that must be activated” in dealing with Israel.
Albares’ remarks came shortly after foreign ministers from 19 Arab and other countries issued a joint statement condemning recent Israeli decisions aimed at expanding settlements, annexing land, and tightening control over the West Bank.
The ministers said the measures constitute “a blatant violation of international law” and undermine prospects for a just and comprehensive peace based on a two-state solution.