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Spain-Israel Conflict Deepens Over Iran Attack: Ambassador Permanently Recalled
Spain Permanently Recalls Israeli Ambassador, Downgrades Diplomatic Ties
The Spanish government has officially downgraded diplomatic relations with Israel and permanently recalled its ambassador. This action follows the deepening conflict between the two countries over Israel's attack on Iran. Spain has been the only Western nation to strongly condemn the attack on Iran, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stating that he would not condone wrongdoing out of fear of retaliation.
The decision to terminate the ambassador's posting was announced following a proposal by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, supported by the Council of Ministers. Going forward, Spain's diplomatic mission in Israel will be led by a chargé d'affaires.
Pro-Palestine Stance and Relationship with the United States
Spain has repeatedly criticized Israel's hardline approach in the conflict triggered by Hamas's surprise attack on southern Israel in October 2023. Notably, Spain officially recognized the independence of a Palestinian State and, last September, recalled its former ambassador Ana María Salomón Pérez after prohibiting weapons shipments and aircraft supporting operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip from entering Israel.
Spain's condemnation of the attack on Iran has also strained its relationship with the United States. Spain did not permit the use of joint US military facilities within its territory for the Iran attack, leading US President Donald Trump to threaten to halt all trade with Spain and criticize its failure to meet NATO defense spending targets. However, Minister Albares stated that bilateral relations remain 'normal' and that the US has not taken any hostile actions.
*Source: RT News (2026-03-11)*
