MADRID, Dec 30 (KUNA) -- Spanish Digital Transformation minister Oscar Lopez said on Tuesday the government has banned more than 200 commercial transactions related to military and defensive components with Israeli companies since September, allowing only one exception.
In an interview with Spain's Europa Press, Lopez said the government prevented all transactions pertaining to the purchase of military, technical and defensive equipment from Israeli occupation's companies since September 23 when the decision was published in the official gazette. But the actual ban was carried out on October 7.
He added that only the Airbus was allowed to purchase certain components and products from Israeli companies for limited industrial purposes, not military use.
Allowing the Airbus to puchase such things is vital and strategic for the manufacturing of aviation in Spain and allows the implementation of some limited projects within limited terms, he stated.
Two weeks after the Cabinet announced a ban on arms trade with the Israeli occupation in September, the Spanish parliament approved on October 8 a royal decree-law authorizing a comprehensive ban on the trade in military equipment and weapons with the Israeli occupation. The decree further cancels existing licenses, prohibits the issuance of new licenses, and bans the transit of military equipment or fuel for military use through Spanish territory.
It includes a ban on the transit of ships or aircraft carrying military materials or fuel to the occupation, whether through Spanish ports or airspace. However, the step provides for very limited and temporary exceptions when required by the "national public interest" or international obligations but after the approval of the Cabinet. (end) hnd.hm