Spain Withdraws Ambassador from Israel in Response to US-Israeli Actions in Iran
In a move that escalates existing diplomatic tensions, Spain has permanently withdrawn its ambassador to Israel, according to the official state gazette. The decision, backed by the Council of Ministers, followed criticism of US-Israeli strikes in Iran and comes after a history of strained relations between Spain and Israel.
Background and Context
Relations between Madrid and Jerusalem have long been tense, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Spain's decision to withdraw its ambassador is seen as a protest against the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, with Spain being the only Western nation to have strongly condemned these actions.
Last September, Spain had temporarily recalled its ambassador after Israel criticised Spain's decision to block aircraft and ships carrying weapons to Israel from using Spanish ports or airspace. This latest move by Spain officially terminates the ambassador's position, leaving the Spanish embassy in Tel Aviv to be led by a charge d'affaires indefinitely.
Key Developments
The decision to withdraw the ambassador was announced on Tuesday and was proposed by Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been vocal in his criticism of the strikes on Iran, labeling them as an extraordinary mistake
and not in accordance with international law
. He has also stated that his nation will not be complicit in something that is bad for the world simply out of fear of reprisals from someone.
On the other hand, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has defended the actions of the US and Israel, stating that they did not have much of a choice
but to take action
and attack Iran. He also clarified that Israel did not dictate to President Trump anything
nor did it drag America into a war.
Implications and Reactions
The decision by Spain has significantly impacted relations with Israel and has also drawn attention from the United States. When asked about Spain's cooperation with the US, President Donald Trump commented, 'No, they're not. I think they're not cooperating at all.' He added, 'Spain, I think they've been very bad.'
The ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran continues to have widespread effects, with the war spilling out into other countries in the region. Iran has reported 1,230 people killed in US-Israeli strikes since Saturday, and Lebanon has reported a death toll of 102 from Israeli strikes.
Conclusion
As the conflict continues, Spain's decision to withdraw its ambassador from Israel indicates a deepening rift between the nations and a firm stand against the actions of the US and Israel in Iran. While the diplomatic mission in Tel Aviv continues under a charge d'affaires, there is currently no information on the appointment of a new head for the diplomatic mission.