The Spanish government has decided to terminate the service of its ambassador to Israel with immediate effect, marking the culmination of increasingly tense diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
The decision was made following a protracted conflict over Spain's objections to the Israeli and US military strikes on Iran.
The Spanish ambassador was previously recalled in September last year after Madrid banned planes and ships carrying weapons to Israel from entering its airspace and ports.
The action was a symbol of protest against the Israeli offensive in Gaza, which drew strong condemnation from Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar also accused Spain of being anti-Semitic.
On Tuesday, Spain officially announced the termination of the ambassador's post.
The Spanish embassy in Tel Aviv is now being run by a temporary charge d'affaires while awaiting the next direction of diplomatic relations.
Israel has also taken a similar action, only placing a charge d'affaires after Spain recalled its ambassador in May in reaction to Spain's recognition of the state of Palestine.
Tensions have been high since the US-Israeli attack on Iran and have escalated since Sa’ar accused Spain of “colluding with tyrannical rulers” for opposing the war.
The split is not just about a territorial conflict, but also reflects a wide gap in the political direction and regional security between the European and Middle Eastern allies.
Spain’s move not only risks deepening the rift in bilateral relations, but also raises questions about the long-term impact on political stability in the region and Europe’s role in the increasingly complex Middle East conflict.
