Spain Halts Ammunition Contract Amid Israel Critique

Spain's Interior Ministry cancels a contract for ammunition purchase from Israel, aligning with its commitment to halting arms sales to the country amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Spain criticizes Israel's military actions, urging EU action against free trade agreements with Israel.

Spain's Interior Ministry announced the cancellation of a contract to purchase ammunition from an Israeli company, broadening its commitment to halt arms sales to the nation. This decision aligns with Spain's stance against selling weapons to Israel following the escalation of violence in Gaza.

The contract, initially tendered in February and awarded in October, included more than 15 million 9-mm rounds valued at six million euros. Spain aims to exclude Israeli companies from future tenders as well, following Madrid's critical viewpoint on Israel's military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for the European Union to consider suspending the bloc's free trade agreement with Israel. Israel's recent escalated conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, initiated in response to a Hamas attack, have led to significant casualties, raising concerns on the international stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)