Political Divisions Emerge Over Sweden's Stance on Gaza Conflict
Social Democrats criticize the Swedish government's approach to the Gaza conflict, emphasizing humanitarian aid and international credibility.
Key Points
- • Magdalena Andersson criticizes the current government's handling of the Gaza conflict.
- • Sweden stopped funding UNRWA in December 2024, one of few EU nations to do so.
- • Andersson advocates for increased support to the ICC to investigate war crimes.
- • Ebba Busch's comments have raised concerns about Sweden’s credibility in the international arena.
On August 29, 2025, Social Democratic leader Magdalena Andersson openly criticized the Swedish government's handling of the Gaza conflict, claiming it poses a threat to the country's international credibility. Andersson described the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly the plight of starving children, as a "stain on humanity's history." She called for an increase in support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which Sweden's current government ceased funding for in December 2024, making it one of the few EU nations and alongside the USA that have not resumed financial support after previously being a major contributor.
Andersson pledged that under a Social Democratic administration, aid to UNRWA would be reinstated and stated the necessity for Sweden not to align with former President Trump's policies regarding the region. She also reiterated her demand for enhanced funding to the International Criminal Court (ICC), proposing an allocation of 10 million SEK to investigate potential war crimes committed by both Israel and Hamas. Recently, the foreign minister initiated steps to freeze the EU's trade agreement with Israel, a move Andersson welcomed but deemed overdue, asserting that her party had been advocating for these changes for over a year.
The debate has led to a rift within the ruling coalition, particularly with the Christian Democrats led by Ebba Busch. Busch criticized the government's communication approach, suggesting it lacked balance and failed to adequately address Hamas' actions. Andersson highlighted that Busch's public remarks have been leveraged by Israeli officials to justify military actions, diminishing Sweden's standing in international discourse. She expressed concern that proposals by Busch, such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital, could further destabilize the region.
This ongoing discussion showcases the complexities and differing approaches within Swedish political parties concerning the Gaza conflict, raising significant questions about Sweden's role and responsibilities on the global stage.