Spain Withdraws Ambassador to Israel Amidst Deepening Rift Over Iran and Gaza

Madrid has permanently withdrawn its ambassador to Israel, Ana María Sálomon Pérez, escalating a diplomatic dispute rooted in Israel’s actions in Gaza and its recent joint military actions with the United States against Iran. The decision, formalized in an official state gazette on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, reflects Spain’s strong opposition to the ongoing conflicts and its growing divergence from both U.S. And Israeli policies.

Escalating Tensions and Diplomatic Fallout

The Spanish government’s move follows a period of increasing tension with Israel, beginning with the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza in October 2023. Spain has been a vocal critic of Israel’s military operations, consistently condemning the situation as a genocide . This stance led to Israel recalling its own ambassador from Madrid in May 2024 after Spain formally recognized a Palestinian state .

Further straining relations, Spain recalled its ambassador, Ana María Sálomon Pérez, for consultations in September 2023 following a disagreement over nine measures imposed by the Spanish government against Israel, including a full arms embargo .

Opposition to US-Israel Actions on Iran

The latest escalation stems from Spain’s strong condemnation of the recent joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez labeled the attacks as “unjustifiable” and reaffirmed his government’s position of “no to war” . Spain also rejected a request from the United States to utilize Spanish bases in support of military action against Iran .

Shift in European Diplomacy

Spain’s actions, alongside Norway, highlight a growing divergence within Europe regarding foreign policy, particularly concerning the Middle East. While some nations align closely with the United States, Spain and Norway are articulating a foreign policy grounded in international law and multilateralism . This shift challenges the traditional Franco-German axis as the primary drivers of European foreign policy.

The Spanish embassy in Tel Aviv will now be led by a chargé d’affaires , a diplomatic position lower than that of an ambassador, signaling a significant downgrading of diplomatic ties.

Key Takeaways

• Spain has permanently withdrawn its ambassador to Israel due to disagreements over the conflict in Gaza and the recent attacks on Iran.
• Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has consistently condemned Israel’s actions and opposes military intervention in the region.
• Spain’s decision reflects a broader shift in European diplomacy, with some nations prioritizing international law and multilateralism.
• Both Spain and Israel are currently without ambassadors in each other’s capitals.