Sweden calls up the Israeli ambassador

Turku – Sweden will summon the Israeli ambassador, says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson to TT.

The EU should act against Israel with sanctions, listings of extremist ministers and settlers, and diplomatic pressure, according to Kristersson.

The Swedish cabinet secretary will summon the Israeli ambassador in Sweden, he says.
Sweden is particularly critical of Israel not allowing all humanitarian aid “that must get through” to the population in Gaza.

“We have been incredibly clear about this, both ourselves and together with many other European countries. That pressure is increasing now, without a doubt. And for very good reasons. We must continue to push for this, and we are doing everything we can to channel money to other organizations that can get through.”

At the same time, he emphasizes that Sweden alone has little influence on the conflict in the Middle East – and sees the opportunities to act within the EU as important.

“For example, reviewing the association agreement between Europe and Israel. It requires unity, and we are not there yet. But there are many of us working in that direction. The actions of the Israeli government right now are bringing more EU countries together to demand more from Israel.”

The association agreement deals with trade and cooperation between the EU and Israel and will be reviewed by the EU Commission, which will assess whether Israel meets the provisions regarding human rights.

(May 26)