Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated Sunday that his government will formally ask the European Union to terminate its Association Agreement with Israel. The announcement came during a pre-campaign rally in Gibraleón, Andalusia, ahead of regional elections.

Sánchez emphasized that the move targets the policies of Israel's government, not its people. "We have nothing against the people of Israel; quite the contrary," he said. "But a government that violates international law and, therefore, the principles and values of the EU cannot be our partner." He added that "those who violate international law and the principles and values of the European Union cannot be partners of the EU." Spain plans to submit the proposal Tuesday at a meeting of the EU's 27 foreign ministers in Luxembourg.

The EU-Israel Association Agreement, in force since 2000, forms the legal basis for bilateral trade and economic cooperation. It has underpinned growing commerce, with the EU serving as Israel's largest trading partner. Suspending it would require consensus among member states, a high bar given past divisions.

Spain's push follows a letter last week from Madrid, Ireland, and Slovenia to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, urging a review of Israel's compliance after the Knesset enacted a death penalty law last month. It aligns with Spain's longstanding criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and recent operations in Lebanon, amid broader Middle East tensions including U.S.-Israel strikes against Iran.

Israel responded swiftly. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar accused Sánchez of hypocrisy on social media, pointing to Spain's ties with Turkey and Venezuela, which he called totalitarian regimes violating human rights. "We have nothing against the citizens of Spain, quite the contrary, but against the double standard of the government of Pedro Sánchez," Sa'ar wrote, noting Spain has been praised by Iran and militant groups.

Tensions between Spain and Israel have escalated since Madrid recognized Palestine in 2024 alongside Ireland and Norway. Recent incidents include Israel expelling Spanish officials from Gaza ceasefire coordination and mutual diplomatic rebukes over military actions. Spain has repeatedly called for EU arms embargoes and trade reviews, though efforts have faltered against opposition from Germany, Italy, and others.

Slovenia has voiced support for Spain's latest initiative, but prospects for EU-wide action remain dim. Previous bids in 2025 to suspend the pact over Gaza operations failed to gain traction. The proposal risks deepening rifts within the bloc, where eastern and northern members often prioritize security ties with Israel.

Sánchez framed the call as upholding Europe's moral leadership, especially as U.S. engagement wanes under President Trump. Critics argue it politicizes trade and ignores security threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran proxies.