Spain approves arms embargo law on Israel

MADRID - The Spanish government on Tuesday approved a decree-law to legally consolidate a total arms embargo on Israel and ban the use of Spanish ports and airspace for the transit of fuel that could be used for military purposes.

The measure is among nine initiatives announced earlier this month by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

"We are consolidating the total arms embargo on Israel and the import ban on products from illegal Israeli settlements in Palestine," said Economy, Trade and Business Minister Carlos Cuerpo at a press conference following the cabinet meeting, which was broadcast on Spanish public television TVE.

Under the decree-law, Spain will prohibit the sale of defense equipment and dual-use products to Israel, as well as the import and advertising of goods or services originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Spanish ports and airports will also be closed to shipments of fuel that could be used by the Israeli military.

Cuerpo said the government will present quarterly reports to ensure compliance with the measures.

The decree-law takes effect immediately but must be ratified by Congress within 30 days to remain valid.

Sanchez, currently in New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly, reiterated Spain's call for international recognition of the State of Palestine as part of a two-state solution.