Sweden to Summon Israeli Ambassador Over Gaza Access Concerns

Israel's ambassador will be summoned to the Foreign Ministry, says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson to TT. We do not stand up for what the Israeli government is doing, by denying access to Gaza. Absolutely not.

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Sweden to Summon Israeli Ambassador Over Gaza Access Concerns
Photo: Roni Rekomaa/AP/TT

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

The Swedish cabinet secretary will summon the Israeli ambassador to 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 it, ourselves and along with many other European countries. The pressure is now increasing, no doubt. And on very good grounds. We must continue to drive it, and we are doing everything we can to channel money to other organizations that can get through.

Wants to act within EU

At the same time, he emphasizes that Sweden alone has a small influence in the Middle East conflict and sees the possibilities of acting 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 we are many working in that direction. The Israeli government's actions now are welding together more EU countries to make increased demands on Israel.

The association agreement, which regulates trade and cooperation between the EU and Israel, will be reviewed by the EU Commission, which will assess whether Israel lives up to the writings on human rights.

Gather more countries

Sweden stands behind Israel's right to exist and defend itself - but it does not mean "absolutely not" that Israel can do "what they want", says the Prime Minister.

We do not stand up for what the Israeli government is doing now, by denying entry to Gaza.

Kristersson also says that Sweden is driving when it comes to achieving a two-state solution, immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid should get through, and prisoners should be released.

If we can gather more countries to now more clearly question what they do regarding humanitarian aid, then it is the best we can do, he continues.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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