Spain removes ambassador from Israel

March 12, 2026

TL;DR

Spain has permanently recalled its ambassador to Israel.
The country has downgraded its diplomatic relations with Israel.
The decision was proposed by the Foreign Minister and backed by the Council of Ministers.
The Spanish mission in Israel will be led by a charge d'affaires.
The former ambassador was recalled in September 2023 due to a ban on ships carrying weaponry to Israel.
Israel had denounced the ban as 'anti-Semitic'.
Spain has repeatedly condemned Israel's actions in the conflict.
Spain has formally recognized the independence of the Palestinian state.
Spain's condemnation of the war has also strained relations with Washington.
Spain refused to allow US joint military installations for attacks.
US President Donald Trump had threatened trade cuts with Spain.
Despite threats, US-Spain relations are described as 'normal'.

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