Swedish Foreign Minister Reaffirms Government Stance Amid Critique on Israel Policy

On August 12, 2025, Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard addressed internal discord regarding the government’s policy on Israel, particularly following comments made by Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch. Stenergard, of the Moderate Party, clarified that the government's call for the EU to freeze its trade agreement with Israel—aimed at facilitating humanitarian access to Gaza—was a coordinated effort, stating, "I represent the government's line."

Busch, representing the Christian Democrats, criticized the government's stance, framing it as displaying an "one-sided focus" on Israel. She voiced her concerns that the government is divided on the matter, further complicating Sweden's position on international relations.

In response to Busch's remarks, the Green Party has lodged a complaint against her with the Parliamentary Committee on the Constitution, indicating a heightened political sensitivity surrounding this issue. Stenergard emphasized the complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict, noting that various political parties might pursue differing agendas but asserting that the government's policy remains clear and unified.