In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, the Spanish government has officially recalled its ambassador to Israel for consultations. The move comes as a direct response to the ongoing military offensive in Gaza and a specific condemnation of the recent Israeli attack on the southern city of Rafah.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares made the announcement on Tuesday, stating the decision was driven by the "unacceptable statements" from the Israeli government regarding the conflict and the deepening humanitarian crisis. "The Spanish government has decided to call our ambassador in Tel Aviv for consultations," Mr. Albares declared.
The recall underscores a dramatic breakdown in relations between the two nations, which has been building for weeks. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been one of the most vocal European leaders criticising Israel's conduct in the war, repeatedly calling for a sustainable ceasefire and expressing profound alarm over the high number of Palestinian casualties.
A Growing European Backlash
Spain's decisive action places it at the forefront of a growing European diplomatic challenge to Israel's strategy in Gaza. While other nations have expressed concern, few have taken such a concrete step, highlighting Madrid's firm stance.
The immediate trigger for the recall appears to be the Israeli airstrike on a displacement camp in Rafah, which resulted in numerous civilian deaths and drew widespread international condemnation. The Spanish government described the event as a grave violation of international humanitarian law.
Israeli Reaction and the Path Forward
Israel has previously accused Prime Minister Sánchez of pandering to domestic political forces and jeopardising the security of the Jewish state. This latest move is certain to further inflame a bitter war of words between Madrid and Tel Aviv.
The withdrawal of an ambassador is a powerful diplomatic tool, signalling profound disagreement and pausing high-level governmental dialogue. It remains to be seen how long the Spanish envoy will remain out of Israel and what further steps, if any, the Spanish government might consider as it seeks to pressure Israel into changing its military approach in Gaza.
