Spain’s Recognition of Palestine Sparks Diplomatic Tensions with Israel
Spain’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state has ignited a wave of diplomatic tensions with Israel. The announcement by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been met with strong reactions, especially from right-wing European leaders such as Santiago Abascal, the head of Spain's Vox party. Abascal countered Sánchez's move by visiting Israel and meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. During his visit, Abascal criticized Sánchez for putting Spain 'in a very problematic international position' and aligning with terrorism.
Abascal's visit to Jerusalem, upon invitation by Minister Amichai Shikli, aimed to bolster support for Israel among European right-wing parties. Abascal, along with Shikli, visited several key historical sites, and in a conversation emphasized that Sánchez’s stance did not reflect the views of the Spanish people. 'Pedro Sánchez is not Spain,' Abascal remarked, adding that Sánchez’s unilateral recognition of Palestine was a move to cover up his own political problems.
Netanyahu slammed the decision, stating that Spain, Norway, and Ireland—countries that coordinated this recognition—were ‘rewarding terrorism.’ This move led to Israel recalling its ambassadors from these nations for consultations. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz withdrew the credentials of Spain’s Consulate General in Jerusalem and announced severe diplomatic retaliation, expressing that such actions ‘undermined Israel’s sovereignty and endangered its security.’
This diplomatic rift is not a first between Spain and Israel. Previous visits by Sánchez to the Middle East saw similar tensions, with the Israeli Foreign Ministry summoning Spanish diplomatic officials following criticisms by Sánchez of Israel's actions in Gaza. Despite these strained relations, Sánchez has maintained that the recognition of Palestine was not intended to be adversarial towards Israel but aimed at promoting peace and securing a two-state solution.
- Abascal highlighted the historical context and emotional ties that regions like Jerusalem hold, drawing a parallel between the historical conquest of Spain and the current political dynamics. He declared that Spain needs to be mindful of massive **immigration** issues and militant groups, pointing out potential future threats.
- On the international front, Foreign Minister Katz's decision to disrupt consular services to Palestinians was another significant measure aimed at retaliating against Spain's recognition. He emphasized that actions supporting Hamas or attempting to establish a 'Palestinian **terrorist state**' would be met with severe consequences from Israel.
