Sánchez accuses Israel of genocide, triggers fierce diplomatic clash

Diplomatic tensions between Spain and Israel have escalated sharply, with Madrid recalling its ambassador from Tel Aviv on Monday. The move came after the Israeli government accused Spain of antisemitism and barred two Spanish ministers from entering the country.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the decision was taken in response to “slanderous accusations and unacceptable measures against two members of the government.”

Earlier the same day, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described events in Gaza as “genocide” and announced nine measures aimed at halting it. These include a permanent arms embargo, a ban on imports from occupied territories, and prohibiting individuals involved in the war from entering Spain.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, writing on social media platform X, branded the Spanish government “antisemitic” and declared that Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz and Youth Minister Sira Rego would be denied entry to Israel. Díaz retorted: “It is a point of pride that a genocidal state is banning me.”

Later on Monday, Spain condemned a terrorist attack in Jerusalem which killed six people, including a Spanish national.

The diplomatic row deepened as Spain recalled its envoy, prompting Sa’ar to write: “Sánchez has messed with the wrong people. The days of the Inquisition, persecution and expulsion are over. Israel is a strong and sovereign country.”

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