Escalating Tensions Between the European Union and Israel
Tensions between the European Union (EU) and Israel have surged dramatically as Spain and Ireland, along with Norway, are set to formalize their diplomatic recognition of a Palestinian state. This move has provoked sharp responses from Israel, including a threat to cease consular services for Palestinians at the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem. The situation: ‘Israel has to stop its offensive in Rafah,’ says Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares.
Israeli Reactions to Diplomatic Developments
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has announced preliminary punitive measures targeting the Spanish consulate. Starting June 1, it will only provide services to residents of the Jerusalem district, excluding those from the Palestinian Authority. Katz condemned Spain’s recognition of Palestine, alleging it amounts to rewarding terrorism, and citing historical grievances like the Spanish Inquisition. Katz also criticized Spain’s stance as undermining Israel’s sovereignty and security.
EU’s Position and Humanitarian Concerns in Gaza
Adding another dimension to the tension, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has requested an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The EU has condemned both the initial Hamas attack on October 7 and the subsequent Israeli military response, which has inflicted severe casualties in the Gaza Strip, especially in Rafah. Despite calls from The International Court of Justice (ICJ) to cease the offensive, Israel has continued its operations, leading to further loss of life and displacement of civilians.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has reiterated the binding nature of ICJ's orders, including the halt to the offensive in Rafah, ceasefire talks, release of hostages, and access to humanitarian aid. Albares condemned Israel's handling of the Gaza conflict ambassadors and maintained that the goal remains to recognize the state of Palestine and pursue a permanent ceasefire and lasting peace.
- Spain, along with Ireland and Norway, faced harsh criticism from Israel after their announcement to recognize the state of Palestine. The ambassadors from these countries were summoned by Israeli authorities and shown videos of the October 7 Hamas attack, with the move being criticized by Albares as violating diplomatic courtesies.
- Yolanda Díaz, Spain’s Minister of Labor and leader of the far-left Sumar party, echoed support for Palestine. However, she went further by condemning the situation in Gaza as a genocide and calling for comprehensive freedom for Palestine. Meanwhile, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recalled the Israeli ambassador from Madrid, heightening the diplomatic tension.
