In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has referred to Israel as a “genocidal state,” asserting that Spain does not engage in business with such a nation. This statement, made during a session in the Spanish Congress on May 14, 2025, has intensified the already strained relations between Spain and Israel.
Sánchez’s remarks come in the context of Spain’s broader policy shifts concerning the Israel-Palestine conflict. In 2024, Spain, alongside Ireland and Norway, formally recognized the State of Palestine, advocating for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. This move was described by Sánchez as a matter of “historical justice” and a necessary step towards achieving lasting peace in the region. (Al Jazeera)
Furthermore, Spain has taken concrete actions to distance itself from military engagements with Israel. Since October 2023, the Spanish government has suspended all arms sales to Israel. This decision was reaffirmed in April 2025 when Spain canceled a €6.6 million arms order from an Israeli company following public outcry and internal government pressure. (The Guardian)
The Spanish Prime Minister has also been vocal in international forums, calling for Israel’s exclusion from cultural events such as the Eurovision Song Contest, citing the ongoing military actions in Gaza as incompatible with the values these events represent. (Reuters)
These developments underscore Spain’s growing criticism of Israel’s policies and actions in the Palestinian territories, reflecting a significant shift in its foreign policy stance.
Credit: Information sourced from El País, Reuters, and official Spanish government statements.
