Spanish Lawmakers Approve Resolution Halting Arms Exports to Israel

(MENAFN) Spain’s parliament approved a symbolic resolution on Tuesday advocating for a halt in arms exports to Israel, responding to its ongoing military actions in Gaza.

The proposal, brought forward by the left-wing Sumar alliance—part of the governing coalition—alongside opposition parties Podemos and the Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC), narrowly passed with 176 votes in favor and 171 against, according to media reports.

Right-wing parties, including the conservative People’s Party (PP) and the far-right Vox, opposed the initiative, while other political groups backed it.

Supporters of the motion applauded its passage. It calls on the Spanish government to stop shipments of any items that could enhance Israel’s military capabilities, such as helmets, body armor, and fuel that could be used for military purposes.

The measure also advises revising Spain’s foreign trade policies to block military agreements with nations accused of genocide or crimes against humanity, specifically referencing Israel’s campaign in Gaza.

Sumar’s spokesperson, Veronica Martinez, stated that Spain "cannot cooperate with a state that commits genocide or war crimes," and emphasized that Israel’s weapons industry "must not be supported under the current circumstances in Gaza."

Podemos leader Ione Belarra urged the government to hold an emergency meeting this week to formally enact a ban on arms transfers to Israel.

MENAFN21052025000045017169ID1109575238