Spain voices concerns as EU halts aid to Palestine amid clashes
p>Spain challenges the European Commission’s move to pause EU cooperation with the Palestinian territories following an attack on Israel attributed to Hamas. The decision, announced by the European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement, prompted formal unease within the Spanish government after the commissioner’s post on X stirred public debate.
Public disagreements emerged from Spanish officials, including Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. In a conversation with Prensa Ibérica’s El Periódico de España, Albares warned that the suspension could backfire and called for continued support to NGOs and United Nations mechanisms while efforts are made to distinguish Hamas from the Palestinian Authority.
Apart from projects in East Jerusalem, EU aid covers salaries, pensions, and health expenses in the Palestinian territories under occupation, totaling roughly 700 million euros each year. The EU also contributes to UNRWA, which operates schools, clinics, and essential services in refugee camps where many Palestinians have lived for decades.
The Spanish foreign minister criticized how the plan was presented, arguing that crucial decisions should be discussed in the Council rather than announced via social media. He signaled willingness to advocate the issue directly within the Council rather than through a public tweet.
Earlier in the week, Josep Borrell convened the Foreign Affairs Council to address the matter. Albares reported broad support from European colleagues for maintaining aid while pursuing accountability measures.
Immediate halt to funding
The commissioner stated that the bloc had immediately frozen all planned payments and would review ongoing projects. He noted that similar steps had been taken by Austria and that Germany was evaluating its commitments, focusing on how aid is disbursed to Ramallah or channeled through UN agencies and NGOs rather than funneled directly to Hamas in Gaza.
The development aid agenda beyond Gaza remains under review as part of the EU-wide assessment in response to the recent attacks and ongoing violence.
The EU remains the Palestinians’ largest donor, with the entire development portfolio valued at about €691 million being reexamined. The portfolio includes support to Palestinian authorities and humanitarian programs in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A full review aims to ensure aid aligns with peace, tolerance, and coexistence goals while avoiding incitement to violence or terror. The EU continues to emphasize humanitarian access and development through international organizations and local partners.
During public remarks, the commissioner stressed the need to address the brutality and terror that followed the attack on Israel, underscoring that peace foundations require decisive action. He noted that a robust response is needed now to prevent further harm and preserve regional stability.
In related discussions, EU leaders reiterated support for a two-state framework and for livelihoods and education through development programs in Palestinian areas. Debates also touched on how aid funds are conditioned, including education reforms in the Palestinian Authority and the role of schools in shaping attitudes toward neighboring communities. International non-governmental organizations have been active in monitoring and supporting these efforts amid regional tensions.
EU leaders and officials also addressed statements from high-level representatives about Israel’s right to defend itself. The broader context includes concerns about casualties and the humanitarian situation in both Israel and Palestinian territories, as well as the impact of military actions on civilians in Gaza and the West Bank.
As events unfold, messages from EU and member state officials continue to emphasize a balance between security needs, humanitarian access, and long-term peace prospects for Israelis and Palestinians alike. The EU’s stance remains anchored in support for stability, human rights, and peaceful coexistence, even as funding allocations are reassessed in light of current events.
Recent developments highlight the complexity of international aid policy in conflict zones, where rapid funding shifts can influence humanitarian operations, governance, and the path toward peace. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing discussions among EU member states about effective and principled responses to emerging security challenges.
The broader regional implications are significant as European leaders navigate safeguarding citizens, upholding international law, and sustaining essential development programs for civilians in need. The EU’s approach underscores the importance of clear accountability mechanisms and ensuring humanitarian access during crises. [Citation: EU official statements; regional news reporting; humanitarian organizations]