Sanchez levels genocide accusations against Israel, causing intense diplomatic conflict.

Escalating disagreements between Spain and Israel have intensified greatly, with Madrid deciding to withdraw its ambassador from Tel Aviv on Monday. This decision was made following the Israeli government's accusation of Spain for antisemitism and their refusal to allow two Spanish ministers...

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2025 September 17 . 2:23 AM

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Israel faces accusations of genocide by Sánchez, sparking intense diplomatic conflict

Sanchez levels genocide accusations against Israel, causing intense diplomatic conflict.

The diplomatic row between Spain and Israel has taken a turn for the worse, with both nations exchanging harsh words and actions. Here's a breakdown of the recent developments:

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares recalled the ambassador from Tel Aviv, citing "slanderous accusations and unacceptable measures against two members of the government" from the Israeli government.
The Israeli government, led by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, barred two Spanish ministers - Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Labor Yolanda Díaz, and Youth Minister Sira Rego - from entering Israel. This decision was made in response to Díaz's criticism of the situation in Gaza.
In a statement made on a social media platform, Gideon Sa'ar branded the Spanish government "antisemitic." He also referenced historical events such as the Inquisition and expulsion of Jews from Spain in his statement.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described events in Gaza as "genocide" and announced nine measures aimed at halting it. These measures include a permanent arms embargo, a ban on imports from occupied territories, and prohibiting individuals involved in the war from entering Spain.
The diplomatic row deepened as Spain recalled its envoy, following the terrorist attack in Jerusalem which resulted in the death of a Spanish national.
In response to Spain's recall of its ambassador, Gideon Sa'ar wrote a statement on the same social media platform, implying that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had made a mistake by recalling the ambassador. He also stated that Israel is a strong and sovereign country.
Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz responded to being banned by Israel by saying, "It is a point of pride that a genocidal state is banning me."
The statement from Gideon Sa'ar did not address the initial reasons for the diplomatic row between Spain and Israel.

As of now, both nations continue to maintain their positions, and the diplomatic row between Spain and Israel remains unresolved.