Israel Slams Spain’s Leader Over EU Agreement Stance
Tensions escalate as the Israeli government sharply criticizes Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for urging the suspension of an EU agreement. This follows Sánchez‘s remarks regarding human rights concerns, igniting a diplomatic row and raising questions about the future of the relationship.
Madrid Summons Israeli Diplomat
The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Israeli business manager in Madrid, Danaz, in response to a strongly-worded statement from Israel. The statement condemned Sánchez‘s position as “morally indefensible” due to his calls for suspending the EU-Israel association agreement.
Israel’s embassy in Madrid expressed its displeasure, stating that Sánchez had asked partners to halt the agreement just days after Iranian missiles struck Israeli territory. The embassy highlighted the impact of the attacks, which resulted in civilian casualties and property damage.
“This is not only deeply unfortunate: it is morally indefensible,”
—Israeli Embassy
Accusations and Counterclaims
The Israeli embassy’s statement further asserted that Sánchez‘s stance puts Spain “on the wrong side of the story.” They emphasized Israel’s right to defend its citizens, labeling the Spanish government’s stance as being at odds with the European Union’s general position regarding the Middle East.
Sánchez‘s actions stem from his belief that Israel is violating Article 2 of the association agreement, specifically in relation to human rights. He has compared the situation to the sanctions placed on Russia for its aggression in Ukraine.
According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the EU has imposed over 1,500 sanctions against Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine (Council on Foreign Relations).
A History of Tensions
This isn’t the first dispute. The Spanish Foreign Ministry previously summoned the Israeli business manager in June to protest the arrest of a Spanish citizen aboard a ship attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. The ship was intercepted by the Israeli military.
The current ambassador, Rodica Radian-Gordon, was called for consultations in May 2024 following Spain’s recognition of Palestine, and her replacement has not yet been designated.
The clash suggests a deteriorating relationship between Spain and Israel. This disagreement brings to light potential shifts in European foreign policy regarding the Middle East. The implications for future diplomatic efforts are yet unknown.
