Madrid: The Spanish government on Tuesday announced a sweeping ban preventing Israeli ministers and individuals involved in human rights violations and war crimes in Gaza from entering the country. This decision also includes imposing an arms embargo.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Spanish Cabinet specifically named Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, as reported by broadcaster RTVE. Foreign Minister Jos© Manuel Albares emphasized Spain's commitment to taking action in response to the ongoing violence and the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza. The measures were announced following a Cabinet meeting.
Albares stated that a list of banned individuals would be compiled and included in the Schengen information system, which will also encompass Israeli settlers. When questioned about whether this decision would affect Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Albares referred to similar decisions by international courts in which Spain participates.
Prime Minister Pedro S¡nchez had earlier announced a series of measures in support of the Palestinian population, which includes increasing resources for UNRWA, the UN relief agency for Palestinians, and banning the import of products from Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
While S¡nchez reaffirmed Spain's support for Israel's right to exist and defend itself, he criticized the current situation in the Gaza Strip, describing it as "the extermination of a defenceless people" rather than a legitimate defense or attack.
Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide, accusing Hamas of using civilians as human shields. Meanwhile, Israel is also facing genocide allegations brought by South Africa before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
