ISTANBUL

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares on Tuesday called for an arms embargo on Israel and urged the resumption of diplomatic negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking to Bloomberg TV, Albares stressed the EU's responsibility in light of its strong economic ties with Israel.

“The European Union is Israel’s largest trading partner in the world. We must impose an arms embargo, not sell weapons to Israel while this war continues,” he said, Spanish daily El Pais reported.

Albares expressed deep concern over the lack of de-escalation between Israel and Iran, warning that the ongoing hostilities pose a serious threat to regional stability.

He also emphasized the importance of reviving diplomatic dialogue with Iran regarding its nuclear activities, underscoring Spain’s commitment to non-proliferation and regional peace.

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified since Friday, following Israeli airstrikes targeting several locations across Iran, including military and nuclear sites, which triggered retaliatory attacks from Tehran.

Israeli officials reported that Iranian missile strikes have killed at least 24 people and injured hundreds.

Iran stated that the Israeli attacks have resulted in at least 224 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries.