Tsipras-backed ELAS calls for sanctions on Israel and recognition of Palestine
The Greek left-wing alliance ELAS, founded by former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, has called for an end to Israel's settlement activities in the West Bank, European Union sanctions against Israel and the recognition of the State of Palestine by Greece.
In a statement issued by its Foreign Policy Unit, ELAS criticized the Israeli government's plans for development in the E1 area, arguing that the move is intended to expand settlements in the West Bank and violates international law and United Nations resolutions.
The statement also called for an immediate end to the attacks in Gaza and what it described as “ethnic cleansing” in the West Bank, urging the European Union to impose effective sanctions to increase pressure on Israel.
Calls for EU-Israel agreement to be suspended
ELAS called for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, as well as sanctions against Israeli political figures and settlers whom it accused of encouraging violence and hatred.
The group said the international community and the European Union should prioritize securing a ceasefire and restarting credible negotiations toward a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders.
It also stated that East Jerusalem should serve as the capital of a future Palestinian state.
Criticism of the Greek government
The Tsipras-backed alliance also criticized the Greek government for not joining a joint statement issued by the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Canada concerning Israel's policies in the West Bank.
ELAS argued that the position of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' government on developments in Gaza and the West Bank was putting Greece in a difficult position.
The group called on Athens to formally recognize the State of Palestine, adding recognition to its broader demands for a change in Greece's approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The statement comes as European governments continue to face pressure over their positions on the war in Gaza, Israeli settlement policies and the future of the two-state solution.
