The Prime Ministers of Spain and Ireland have jointly called on the European Commission to urgently review Israel’s compliance with human rights obligations in Gaza.
With mounting international pressure to deter an assault on the densely-populated southern city of Rafah, the leaders, along with Belgium, voiced deep concerns about the situation.
Describing an attack on Rafah as a “grave and imminent threat,” the prime ministers stressed the urgent need for the international community to address the escalating situation. In a joint letter published on the Spanish government website, they also emphasized the importance of recalling the events of October 7, urging an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages.
The letter highlighted the toll of the conflict, stating that at least 1,200 Israelis were killed and around 250 taken hostage in a Hamas raid on southern Israel on October 7. Subsequent Israeli retaliation has led to approximately 28,576 Palestinians being killed in Gaza, according to the Gaza health ministry’s latest figures.
A source from the Spanish government expressed confidence in European countries rallying around a more assertive stance. The source pointed to a tweet by Alexander De Croo, the Prime Minister of Belgium and current EU Council president, warning of a potential “unmitigated humanitarian catastrophe” resulting from the ongoing situation in Gaza. The joint efforts of Spain, Ireland, and Belgium underscore a growing push within the EU for a robust response to Israel’s actions in the region.
