Analysts point out that Spain's announcement to withdraw its ambassador from Israel is not siding with Iran but signals a foreign policy shift by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's government toward a clearer anti-war stance.
On 12 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Spain decided to withdraw its ambassador to Israel amid escalating Middle East conflict. Analysts interpret this move not as support for Iran but as a stronger anti-war stance, part of a foreign policy change developing over several years under Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, emphasizing a clear anti-war position.
The withdrawal order was published in Spain's official government gazette, stating the termination of Ana María Salomón Pérez's tenure as ambassador to Israel, following the Foreign Ministry's proposal and the Cabinet's decision on 10 Mar 2026 GMT+7. Going forward, Spain's embassy in Tel Aviv will be managed by a chargé d'affaires ad interim.
This decision comes as Spain is among the European Union countries most openly critical of Israeli policies, including the Gaza conflict and the attacks on Iran launched by the US and Israel.
Previously, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that US and Israeli attacks on Iran were "unacceptable," declaring the government's position of "no to war." However, this stance does not imply support for Iran's government, as Sánchez has consistently criticized Iran's suppression of protesters and the role of its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Meanwhile, Spain has been one of the European countries continually criticizing Israel's military operations in Gaza. Last October, the Spanish Parliament passed a law completely banning arms and military technology exports to Israel.
This measure includes prohibiting sales of weapons, military equipment, and dual-use technology in response to what Spain calls the "genocide in Gaza."
Analysts view the ambassador withdrawal as reflecting a new trend in Spain's foreign policy, which seeks to take a diplomatic role in the Middle East while reaffirming commitment to international law and resolving conflicts through negotiation.
Additionally, the withdrawal is seen as another step in Spain's diplomatic repositioning, aiming to be a critical voice against war in Europe and to promote itself as a diplomatic mediator in the Middle East region.
Source: Euronews