Spain Condemns US and Israel Actions in Middle East Conflicts

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated at a European forum that Europe's challenge includes rearming itself morally to contribute to stable and peaceful development worldwide. This position aligns with Spain's actions in response to recent Middle East conflicts involving the US and Israel.

In late February, the US and Israel conducted joint strikes on Iran. Sanchez described the action as an unjustified and dangerous military intervention outside international law, later calling it absurd, cruel, and illegal. Spain denied permission for American forces to use jointly operated bases for attacks against Iran.

Spain's Defence Minister Margarita Robles stated last month that the country does not authorize the use of military bases or airspace for actions related to the war in Iran. Robles added that Spain's position is clear. This week, Spain became the first western country to reopen its embassy in Tehran after a ceasefire between the US and Iran took hold, brokered by Pakistan.

In a written statement, Sanchez said the Spanish government will not applaud those who set the world on fire just because they show up with a bucket. Iran has designated Spain as a non-hostile country and suggested allowing its ships to pass through a vital shipping route amid a blockade affecting millions of barrels of oil.

Spain has also addressed Israel's actions in Lebanon. Sanchez accused Israel of attempting to inflict damage and destruction similar to that in Gaza, stating there must be no impunity for these acts. He called for the EU to suspend trade with Israel in a speech on Friday.

In March, Spain permanently withdrew its ambassador to Tel Aviv following years of disagreements. Netanyahu announced on Friday that Israel would oust Spain from a US-led Gaza military strategy center in Kiryat Gat due to Spain's positions. Netanyahu stated in a video address that Spain has defamed Israeli soldiers and that Israel will not allow diplomatic actions against it without consequences.

Trump referred to Spain as terrible and threatened to cut off all trade over the base refusal. A Politico European Pulse survey released on Thursday found that 51 percent of Spaniards view Washington as a threat to Europe, the highest proportion among surveyed countries.

The survey also indicated that 43 percent of Spaniards oppose the US-Israeli war on Iran, 22 percent are neutral, and 94 percent believe Europe needs greater self-sufficiency.

Spain's positions follow its joining with Ireland in criticizing Israel after the Gaza war began in October 2023. Sanchez accused the Israeli government of genocide, a claim Israel has dismissed as antisemitic.