A trio of House Democrats from the progressive 'Squad' is urging the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to halt the U.S.-led investigation into Spain's anti-Israel arms embargo. Representatives Rashida Tlaib, Cori Bush, and Summer Lee have written to the FMC, criticizing the probe into Spain's decision to deny port entry to ships carrying weapons bound for Israel.
Spain, a key U.S. ally and NATO member, announced a halt to weapon sales to Israel during its conflict with Hamas in October 2023. Since then, Spain has refused entry to ships suspected of carrying arms for Israel on multiple occasions.
The FMC initiated the investigation after Spain denied entry to U.S.-flagged vessels on three separate occasions this year. The agency aims to determine if Spain's actions create unfavorable conditions for U.S. shipping trade.
The House Democrats argue that Spain's decisions to block certain vessels are legitimate efforts to uphold international human rights and humanitarian law. They assert that the U.S. should not interfere with Spain's sovereign policies.
The lawmakers have been vocal critics of the Israeli government's actions in Gaza, following a conflict triggered by a Hamas attack in southern Israel. The military operation in response to the attack has resulted in a significant number of casualties.
Spain, along with Ireland and Norway, recently recognized Palestinian statehood. The House Democrats maintain that the U.S. has no authority to investigate Spain's actions and should not penalize allies for enforcing international law.
