Greek New Left party calls for arms embargo, diplomatic sanctions on Israel
Alexis Haritsis and the policy statements of the new Greek Government, at the Greek Parliament, in Athens, July 7, 2023. (Photo via Sooc)
Alexis Haritsis, leader of the Greek New Left Party’s parliamentary group, has called for an immediate arms embargo and diplomatic sanctions against Israel in response to its military operations in Lebanon.
Haritsis urged the Greek government to halt all cooperation with Israel and lead peace initiatives at the European level.
In a statement shared on social media, Haritsis criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for expanding conflict in the region, claiming that the Israeli leader is not only opening a second front in Lebanon but also aiming to initiate an open war with Iran.
Haritsis warned that this could escalate into a broader regional conflict.
Call for sanctions against Israel
“Arms embargoes and economic and diplomatic sanctions must be imposed on Israel now to end the havoc in the Middle East. The Greek government must abandon the dangerous attitude of a loyal and predictable ally,” Haritsis stated.
“As the EU country most directly affected by the flare-up in the Middle East, it must finally take initiatives for peace at the European level and stop any kind of cooperation with Israel,” he added.
“The cause of peace, however, is above all the cause of the peoples. To make our “no” to war and occupation heard. In Lebanon and Palestine, the humanity of all of us is being judged.” Haritsis said.
Criticism of Netanyahu’s UN speech
Haritsis criticized Netanyahu’s recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly, accusing the Israeli leader of justifying attacks on civilians while ignoring the plight of the Palestinian people.
“He does not hide his intentions. In his provocative speech to the UN yesterday, he announced massive strikes against civilians, claiming that weapons are hidden in every home in Lebanon,” Haritsis stated.
He further remarked, “Moreover, he did not even mention the word ‘Palestinians’ because, for the Israeli leadership, Palestinian lives hold no value; the Palestinian people have zero importance.”
“The image of dozens of diplomats leaving the UN General Assembly hall as Netanyahu began his speech was a symbolic slap in the face of his genocidal policy. However, symbolic gestures are not enough,” Haritsis concluded.
