Spanish PM calls for tougher EU stance on Israel, stronger global role

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called on the European Union to adopt a stronger moral and strategic role on the global stage, arguing that Europe must not only reinforce its defence capabilities but also “rearm morally” in an increasingly unstable world.

Speaking at the European Pulse Forum in Barcelona, organised by POLITICO and beBartlet, Sánchez said Europe should “dream big” and position itself as a global leader in defending international law, democratic values and multilateral cooperation.

He argued that as the United States retreats from international cooperation frameworks, the EU has a responsibility to fill the vacuum. In that context, he presented Spain as a model for the rest of the bloc, highlighting its economic growth, job creation, and expansion of renewable energy while maintaining social protection and environmental commitments.

Sánchez pointed to Spain’s rapid rollout of renewables as a key strength, saying it has helped shield the country from energy shocks linked to recent global conflicts. He also stressed that Europe already leads globally in quality of life, democratic governance, and environmental standards, but warned the bloc must show greater confidence in its achievements.

On foreign policy, Sánchez took a notably firm stance, urging the EU to consider suspending its cooperation agreement with Israel in response to what he described as violations of international law. The comments reflect his ongoing criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as wider regional tensions involving the United States.

His remarks also come amid political friction with U.S. President Donald Trump, particularly over approaches to international cooperation and Middle East policy.

Domestically, Sánchez pushed back against rising criticism of Spain’s migration policies, defending “legal, safe and orderly migration” as essential for Europe’s economic and demographic future. His stance contrasts with opposition voices calling for tighter border controls and a halt to regularisation of undocumented migrants.

Concluding his address, Sánchez urged EU leaders to act with greater ambition and unity, insisting that Europe has the institutions, talent and values needed to lead globally — but must find the political courage to act on them.