BREAKING: Spain recalls ambassador from Israel over Iran war, genocide in Gaza

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Spanish government has withdrawn its ambassador to Israel amid growing diplomatic tension linked to the war in Gaza and the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

An announcement published in Spain’s official state gazette confirmed that the decision took effect on Wednesday. The move reflects Madrid’s strong criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza as well as the conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran.

Spain has emerged as one of the European Union countries that openly condemn Israel’s conduct in Gaza. The government has also opposed the military campaign launched by Washington and Tel Aviv against Iran.

The gazette explained the decision regarding Spain’s diplomatic representation in Israel. It stated: “At the proposal of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the European Union and Cooperation, and following deliberation by the Council of Ministers at its meeting on 10 March 2026, I hereby order the termination of Ms Ana María Sálomon Pérez’s appointment as Ambassador of Spain to the State of Israel.”

Following the ambassador’s removal, Spain’s embassy in Tel Aviv will now operate under a charge d’affaires, according to a source from the country’s Foreign Ministry cited by Reuters.

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been among the few left-wing European leaders who openly criticize the attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran. He described the assault as “unjustifiable” and stressed that Madrid’s position remains “no to the war”.

The Spanish government has also maintained a strong stance against Israel’s operations in Gaza. In October, Spain’s parliament approved legislation that imposed a complete arms embargo on Israel. The law permanently blocks the sale of weapons, military equipment and dual-use technology to the country in response to the genocide.