The government of Spain has withdrawn its ambassador from Israel, marking a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries as the Middle East conflict intensifies.
Spanish officials said the decision was taken in protest over Israel’s ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip and the widening regional conflict involving Iran.
Under the move, Spain’s embassy in Tel Aviv will remain open but will now be headed by a lower-ranking diplomat known as a chargé d’affaires instead of a full ambassador.
Relations between Madrid and Tel Aviv have been strained for months following Spain’s criticism of Israeli military actions and its recognition of the State of Palestine.
The dispute has widened further as Spain moved to block arms shipments to Israel through Spanish ports and airspace, a step Israeli officials strongly opposed.
Diplomatic analysts say the withdrawal of an ambassador is one of the strongest political signals short of breaking diplomatic relations entirely.
Spain’s move reflects growing divisions within the international community over the expanding Middle East war and the humanitarian consequences of the fighting.
More reactions from Israel and international leaders are expected as the diplomatic fallout continues to unfold……