Spain Withdraws Ambassador from Israel Over Criticism of Middle East Conflict

The Spanish government has formally withdrawn its ambassador from Israel, a diplomatic step that marks increasing tension between the two countries amid Madrid’s severe criticism of Israeli military operations in Gaza and the wider Middle East conflict.

The decision was announced through Spain’s official state gazette, which stated that the government decided to end the posting of Spain’s ambassador to Israel.

“Upon the recommendation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, and following discussion by the Council of Ministers at its meeting on 10 March 2026, I hereby order the termination of the appointment of Ms Ana María Sálomon Pérez as Ambassador of Spain to the State of Israel,” the official statement read, as quoted by Al Jazeera.

The step was taken after Spain became one of the most vocal countries in the European Union criticising Israeli military action, both in the Gaza conflict and in the recent confrontation involving Iran.

Although withdrawing its ambassador, the Spanish government has not closed its embassy in Israel. According to sources at Spain’s Foreign Ministry cited by Reuters, the country’s embassy in Tel Aviv continues to operate.

For the time being, however, Spain’s diplomatic mission in the city will be led by a charge d’affaires—a diplomatic official who leads an embassy without ambassadorial status.

This step is typically taken in situations of diplomatic tension as a political signal without fully severing diplomatic relations.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has long been known as one of Europe’s most left-leaning leaders to harshly criticise Israeli military operations.

Sánchez previously condemned attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran as unjustifiable actions.

He has even openly stated that the Spanish government’s position on the conflict is “not to war”.

Additionally, his government is among the European countries that have consistently criticised Israeli military operations in Gaza.

Madrid’s firm stance towards Israel is also reflected in legislative policy adopted by the country’s parliament.

In October last year, Spain’s parliament approved regulations establishing a total weapons embargo on Israel in national law.

The decision permanently bans the sale of weapons, dual-use technology, and military equipment to Israel.

The step was taken in response to what the Spanish government describes as genocide in Gaza.