TEHRAN (Defapress) - The European Union's double standards regarding the wars in Ukraine and Gaza have severely weakened the global standing and credibility of this institution. Meanwhile, Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Spain and one of the most significant supporters of Palestine and critics of Israel in Western countries, in an interview with The Guardian, described the Western world's stance on the genocide in Gaza as the darkest chapter of international relations in the 21st century.
The left-leaning Spanish Prime Minister stated that Donald Trump is trying to end the order established by America after World War II, adding: "I am glad that other European countries are following Spain's lead in recognizing the Palestinian state, but overall, Europe's position on Gaza is very weak and is considered a failure."
Demanding the suspension of strategic cooperation with Israel
Pedro Sánchez added: "The European Union is internally divided on how to deal with Israel. This situation is unacceptable, and we cannot continue with double standards regarding Ukraine and Gaza. The roots of these two wars are completely different, but ultimately, the world asks the European Union and the Western world: Why is your behavior dual when it comes to Ukraine and Gaza?"
He continued: "Spain's position in the European Union and in the international community is very clear. We demand the suspension of the European Union's strategic cooperation with Israel. However, Spain is a reliable partner in NATO and is committed to maintaining the best relationship with America, regardless of who is in the White House."
He noted: "With all due respect, we have a pragmatic approach in our relationship with America that allows us to take a different stance on how to face the world's challenges. It is a big mistake to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and reduce aid to the World Health Organization. Our societies face global challenges that know no borders. Therefore, we must strengthen our cooperation and engagement."
The collapse of the post-World War II order
The Spanish Prime Minister stated that America's withdrawal from international institutions is an opportunity to strengthen the role of other countries, adding: "The most surprising thing we are facing is that America, as the main architect of the global order after World War II, is weakening this order, and this is not positive for Western countries. We must avoid double standards and adopt a humane, ethical, and pragmatic perspective on the issue of immigration."
Pedro Sánchez added: "In politics, as in life, when you create a gap, there is always someone to fill it. Western societies must decide whether to have an open and growing society or a closed society that is continuously shrinking. The vast majority of Spanish citizens well understand that, beyond a moral duty, immigration represents an opportunity to effectively manage economic challenges."
Responding to corruption allegations
He, who recently unveiled a 10-point program in Spain to combat climate change, stated: "Right-wing parties, to win elections, seek to undermine efforts to manage the climate change crisis. They act as if climate change does not exist, and this is the biggest problem. I think traditional right-wing parties, who reduce scientific evidence about climate change to ideological and political battles, are making the biggest mistake. We face this problem in Spain."
Recently, the wife of the Spanish Prime Minister has faced financial corruption allegations, and the country's right-wing opposition is trying to topple Sánchez's government. Regarding this, he stated that he is committed to fighting corruption and establishing transparency, adding: "My wife is a victim of accusations from far-right parties. The vast majority of judges in Spain perform their duties and do their job correctly. But some judges engage in politicking, and this is a reality we face not only in Spain but in many other democracies as well."