Tensions are rising within the Spanish government: next week, the final approval of a law restricting arms supplies to Israel is expected. Representatives of the Sumar party insist that the decision will be made at the upcoming Council of Ministers meeting, despite the challenges and delays that have arisen in recent days.
The embargo issue has become a stumbling block for the coalition. The minority in the government has openly expressed dissatisfaction over yet another postponement of the discussion, even though Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez publicly promised in September to speed up the process. Sumar even issued an ultimatum: if the law is not adopted next week, it will be considered a serious breach of agreements by the Socialists.
Meanwhile, United Left (IU) leader Antonio Maíllo has threatened to boycott the Council of Ministers meeting if the decision is delayed again. After heated debates and explanations from the Socialists—who cited technical difficulties and the need to coordinate among various ministries—Sumar issued a statement to ease tensions. According to them, all issues will be resolved by the next meeting, and the bill will finally be put to a vote.
Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun made no secret of his party’s disappointment over yet another delay, but assured that this time there would be no more postponements. He noted that the document requires coordination among multiple government departments and addresses issues of customs control, which caused the holdup. Nevertheless, Sumar insists: the embargo will be approved specifically on Tuesday.
Minister for Youth and Children Sira Rego also emphasized that work on the document is being carried out with the utmost care, and both parties — Sumar and IU — are demonstrating principle and persistence. According to her, the complexity of the law stems from the fact that it covers several areas at once and requires particular precision in its wording. Despite all the obstacles, the government is confident: a decision will be made on time.
