Spain Formally Dismisses Ambassador to Israel Amid Tensions with Tel Aviv

Spain’s government has officially removed Ana Sálomon from her role as ambassador to Israel. The announcement, published in the state journal, followed approval from the Council of Ministers. This action leaves the embassy in Tel Aviv without an ambassador, with diplomatic operations now led by a chargé d’affaires, a position of lesser rank.

The move is seen as a reciprocal response to Israel’s earlier decision to recall its ambassador to Madrid. This followed Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state, prompting Israel to act similarly in May 2024. However, the replacement for the Madrid post has yet to be named, with Netanyahu’s administration delaying the appointment.

Reciprocal Measures in the Conflict

The dismissal of Sálomon coincides with a significant escalation in bilateral relations. In September 2023, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez implemented policies targeting Israel’s actions in Gaza, which he framed as a genocide. This triggered an immediate reaction from Israel, with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accusing Sánchez of antisemitism and restricting access for two of his ministers.

“We are taking decisive steps to halt the genocide in Gaza,” Sánchez stated, highlighting the government’s stance on Israel’s military campaign following Hamas attacks in October 2023.

Saar’s response emphasized accusations of bias, claiming Sánchez’s measures were driven by prejudice against Israeli policies. The dispute has deepened the already fragile diplomatic ties between the two nations, marking a critical turning point in their relationship.