2024-02-10 17:12:14
Spain’s position regarding the United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) is generating controversy and is questioned by our European partners, since it distances itself from the international consensus established by the European Union and other important actors. The recent decision of the Spanish Government to maintain its support for UNRWA, despite the serious allegations of possible involvement of agency personnel in Hamas attacks against Israelis being criticized.
Just two weeks ago, the news of the dismissal of several UNRWA employees for their alleged participation in the October 7 attacks by Hamas on the population of Israel sparked a series of reactions in the international community. The United States, one of the main actors in this scenario, announced the suspension of its financial contribution to the agency, in a clear message of condemnation of any link with terrorist activities.
In contrast, the European Comission, which plays a key role as one of the largest donors of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, opted for a more cautious stance. While he reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian assistance through partner organizations, he decided not provide additional funding to UNRWA until the accusations against him are clarified. A precautionary principle loaded with all sense.
The already announced review of EU aid to Palestine has been carried out meticulously, assessing the viability of the projects and the possible risks of diversion of funds. Non-feasible projects have been identified for a significant amount, which will be reprogrammed in the future to support the needs of the Palestinians in accordance with the new priorities.
Importantly, several countries, including Germany, Sweden, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, and others, They have suspended their financial aid to UNRWA in light of the serious allegations and concerns raised. However, the Spanish Government has chosen to maintain its support for the agency, even announcing additional aid of 3.5 million euros.
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These actions have generated concern and criticism, especially when possible links between UNRWA and Hamas became known. The appointment of José Moisés Martín Carreterowho previously held the position of treasurer of UNRWA Spain, as a senior official of the Spanish Government has raised questions about possible conflicts of interest and lack of transparency in the relationship between the agency and terrorist groups. This fact of Spain not waiting for the results of the investigation, out of a principle of prudence, should at least be explained.
In short, the issue of UNRWA remains one of great geopolitical relevance, with multiple actors and positions at play. Spain’s decision to maintain its support for the agency, despite international questioning, may have significant repercussions on its foreign image and its relations with other countries. However, this position joins other controversial actions, such as the Spanish leadership in the elimination of sanctions against the Venezuelan regime in Europe, which has generated perplexity and confusion.
While countries around us support sanctions on the Venezuelan regime, Spain has positioned itself as the main promoter of the elimination of these restrictive measures. Under the direction of Minister Albares, on the instructions of President Sánchez, Spain has become the main defender of the Bolivarian regime at the European level.
It is important to remember that the sanctions imposed by the European Union on Venezuela include an arms embargo and a travel ban, as well as the freezing of assets for numerous officials. Given this reality, the question arises: is Spain in a position to request the lifting of sanctions of this caliber? This contradiction in Spanish foreign policy raises questions about its coherence and its role on the international stage.
José A. Monago Terraza, deputy spokesperson for the Popular Group in the Senate
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#money #UNRWA #José #Antonio #Monago