Thekabarnews.com—Spain has removed its ambassador to Israel and determined that a lower-ranking chargé d’affaires will now run its embassy in Tel Aviv. Reuters reported the announcement in the country’s official state gazette.

This move is a big change in how the two countries portray one another diplomatically. Additionally, it shows that their relationship is getting worse. Recent tensions regarding military cooperation and geopolitical conflicts in the region contribute to this decline.

The decision comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said no to letting the US utilize Spanish military bases for operations. These issues pertain to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

The decision showed that Spain is becoming more independent in its Middle East policy than some other Western allies. It seeks to navigate its interests in the region. There are increasing tensions and differing approaches among its partners, particularly in light of the recent escalation of conflict in Gaza and the varying responses from Western allies.

Spain’s former ambassador to Israel, Ana Salomon, worked in Tel Aviv at what some people called a very difficult time for diplomacy.

The Diplomat in Spain website reported that her mission came under significant pressure after the conflict in Gaza escalated in 2023.

Madrid and Tel Aviv have experienced growing diplomatic tensions. Spain’s socialist-led government has adopted positions on Israel’s military actions in Gaza and other regional crises. These positions differ from those of many European nations.

Spain has repeatedly called for stronger humanitarian protections and diplomatic solutions in the region. The government has also spoken out against military operations that it thinks could make things worse. In particular, it opposes those that exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and undermine peace efforts in the region.

Last October, Spain’s parliament passed a law supporting an arms embargo against Israel. This was one of the strongest policy responses from any European Union member state to the conflict.

Things were already tense between the two countries when Spain officially recognized Palestine as a state. This made Israel furious. Last May, Israel called back its ambassador from Madrid to protest the decision.

A chargé d’affaires is currently in charge of Israel’s diplomatic mission in Spain. This move shows that the two countries do not have as many diplomats as they used to.

The lower level of diplomatic presence shows how the political split between Spain and Israel over Middle East policy is getting worse.

The decision shows that ties are getting worse, even if diplomatic channels are still available. The reduction in diplomatic staff and the increasingly frequent public disagreements between the two countries demonstrate this trend.

The situation indicates that the ongoing political disagreements are straining their relationship further, which may hinder effective communication and collaboration on regional issues. This development is happening at a time when tensions are still high in the region.

Despite the tense diplomatic situation, the two countries maintain formal connections. This leaves the possibility for future talks open when the situation in the Middle East changes.

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