Spain formally dismisses ambassador to Israel amid tensions with Tel Aviv

Spain formally dismisses ambassador to Israel amid tensions with Tel Aviv

Spain has removed its ambassador to Israel, Ana Sálomon, from office following a decision made public in the official state journal on Tuesday. The move came after approval by the Council of Ministers, marking a significant shift in the country’s diplomatic stance toward Israel. As a result, Spain’s embassy in Tel Aviv will operate without an ambassador, with its representation now led by a chargé d’affaires, a position of lower rank.

The dismissal is seen as a reciprocal act, echoing Israel’s earlier decision to recall its ambassador to Madrid in May 2024. That move followed Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state, which prompted Israel to take similar steps. However, the replacement for the ambassador in Madrid was expected to be appointed shortly after, and the position eventually remained unfilled when the chosen candidate resigned to take another post. Netanyahu’s government did not proceed with a new appointment, leaving the role vacant.

Sálomon’s recall occurred in September 2023, following Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s announcement of measures to halt what he termed a genocide in Gaza. The conflict intensified after Hamas’s attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Sánchez of antisemitism and restricted entry to Israel for two of his ministers, further straining bilateral relations.

“This action reflects the deepening discord between our nations,” stated Saar, highlighting the political fallout from Spain’s stance.

The current diplomatic leadership in Madrid is under the charge of Dana Erlich, who serves as chargé d’affaires. This development underscores the ongoing challenges in Spain-Israel relations, with both countries taking steps to signal their positions in the escalating regional conflict.