Spain removes envoy to Israel as tensions persist over Gaza stance

MADRID (MNTV) — Spain has formally dismissed its ambassador to Israel following months of diplomatic tensions linked to Madrid’s criticism of the genocide in Gaza Strip.

The decision to remove envoy Ana Salomon was published Wednesday in Spain’s official state bulletin.

It confirmed that the move was approved by the Council of Ministers on Tuesday at the request of Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.

Salomon had served as Spain’s ambassador to Israel since July 2021.

She was recalled to Madrid in September for consultations after relations sharply deteriorated with the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Spanish officials said the step came after what they described as “slanderous accusations” from Israel and “unacceptable measures” directed at Spanish ministers, including Labor Minister Yolanda Diaz and Youth Minister Sira Rego.

The dispute intensified after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a series of initiatives aimed at pressing for an end to what Madrid has described as genocide in Gaza.

With Salomon now formally dismissed, Spain’s embassy in Israel will be headed by a charge d’affaires until Madrid decides whether to nominate a new ambassador.

Diplomatic ties between the two countries have remained strained in recent years, particularly after Spain recognized the state of Palestine in 2024.

Israel currently also lacks an ambassador in Madrid, with its embassy run by a charge d’affaires after its previous envoy departed the post.

Any future Spanish ambassador would require approval from the Israeli government before assuming the position.