Overview

• In a Guardian interview ahead of talks in London, the Spanish leader said the bloc’s handling of Israel’s war on Gaza has undermined its standing.
• He said Spain is pressing EU partners to suspend the EU–Israel strategic partnership and consider financial penalties.
• EU divisions have stalled action, with key members opposing sanctions despite an internal review that could have triggered curbs on Israel’s association benefits.
• With recognition efforts building, the UK says it still plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September and Belgium plans to support recognition at the UN General Assembly, following Spain’s move last year.
• He also argued the United States under President Donald Trump is weakening the postwar rules-based order, as UNRWA warned Gaza is becoming a graveyard of international humanitarian law.