Spain Passes Law Banning All Arms Trade With Israel to Stop the Genocide in Gaza
The Spanish Parliament on Wednesday approved a law banning all arms exports and imports between Spain and the occupation state of Israel. The move, backed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, aims to help stop the genocide in Gaza.
The law passed with 178 votes in favor, while 169 lawmakers abstained from declaring their positions until the morning session. The government, which lacks a majority in parliament, secured crucial support from members of the left-wing Podemos party.
Prime Minister Sánchez addressed Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the conservative People’s Party, who opposed the motion.
“The government proposed a ban targeting Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration to stop the genocide in Gaza,” Sánchez said. “You voted against it.”
Sánchez confirmed that the arms ban has been in effect since October 2023, and was officially announced on September 8, 2024, as part of Spain’s broader policy to pressure Israel to halt its attacks on Gaza.
Details of the new law
The newly passed law includes urgent measures to support Palestinians. It bans the export of any military equipment, goods, or technologies that could be used for combat purposes by Israel.
It also prohibits importing such materials from Israel into Spain and blocks the transit of jet fuel shipments that could serve military operations. The law further bans the promotion of products originating from illegal settlements in Gaza and the West Bank.
The legislation allows Spain’s Council of Ministers to make exceptional exemptions if enforcing the ban could seriously harm Spain’s national interests.
Spain’s firm stance has angered the Israeli government. In 2024, Israel summoned the Spanish ambassador after Madrid’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine
Spain has been among the strongest voices in Europe criticizing Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza, which has killed over 67,000 Palestinians so far.
Sánchez has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and accountability for Israeli crimes in Gaza, saying Europe must not remain silent in the face of mass suffering.Spain’s firm stance has angered the Israeli government. In 2024, Israel summoned the Spanish ambassador after Madrid’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine.
