On Wednesday, 8 October, Spain’s parliament approved a law imposing an embargo on arms trade with Israel, formalising the decree issued by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
Voting After Heated Debate
Spain’s parliament approved the embargo law by a 178‑to‑169 vote, following a brief but intense debate. The vote confirmed the decree announced by Pedro Sánchez in September.
Broad Scope of the Ban
The new law forbids the export and import of weapons, dual‑use technology, and fuels used by the Israeli military. Ships and aircraft carrying such goods will be denied access to Spanish ports and airspace. Exemptions apply only where the total ban could harm “general international interests.” The law also bars advertising products originating from “illegal settlements in Gaza and the West Bank.”
Left‑Wing Support, Right‑Wing Opposition
Approval hinged on the support of the far‑left party Podemos, which had previously criticized the bill as too moderate. Podemos ultimately voted in favour, securing passage for the ruling coalition. Party leaders called for severing all ties with Israel, while the People’s Party and far‑right Vox opposed the law, labeling it an ideological stunt threatening Spain’s economic interests.
Israel’s Strong Response
The Israeli embassy in Madrid condemned the parliament’s decision and criticized the timing of the vote. Originally scheduled for 7 October, the day of the second anniversary of the Hamas attack, the vote was postponed a day later following diplomatic pressure. Israel had already recalled its ambassador after Spain recognized a Palestinian state. Prime Minister Sánchez justified the decree as necessary to stop the alleged genocide in Gaza and warned against ships transporting fuel to the Israeli army.
