Enhedslisten intensifies their criticism of Israel during their annual meeting, with a particular focus on the Middle East and the situation in Gaza. The party’s political spokesperson, Pelle Dragsted, delivered a sharp critique of Israel’s actions and the international community’s reactions during his speech. “We protest until Israel stops the occupation,” declared Dragsted, criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his government’s actions in Gaza. Dragsted described it as a “historic stain” that certain countries continue to supply Israel with weapons used in the conflict. Dragsted also distanced himself from Hamas’ terrorist attacks but emphasized that it cannot justify the extensive Israeli attacks on civilian targets such as residential areas and hospitals. “No other government would have been allowed to completely bomb residential areas, schools, universities, hospitals without facing condemnation and extensive sanctions,” he said.
The party is discussing several proposals to sharpen their policy towards Israel and support for Palestine, including a proposal that “Israel should cease to exist as a state.” This proposal has sparked debate internally within the party, where some members, including foreign affairs spokesperson Trine Pertou Mach, have distanced themselves from parts of the proposal. Enhedslisten is also discussing proposals to declare the party as anti-Zionist and call for a boycott of Israel. Dragsted pointed out that the party has had the right position from the start by condemning both anti-Semitism and other forms of racism. “We will continue until the day the Israeli occupation ends. Until the day both peoples can live in freedom and security. Until the day we have a free Palestine,” Dragsted concluded his speech.
The annual meeting, held digitally, continues to discuss the incoming proposals and plan the party’s future policies.