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Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Spain of pursuing a hostile diplomatic agenda against Israel after ordering the removal of Spanish officials from a U.S.-backed coordination centre focused on post-war stabilisation efforts in Gaza
Ties between the two countries have worsened considerably since Spain recognised a Palestinian state in 2024, a decision that prompted both nations to withdraw their ambassadors.
Speaking in a video statement on Friday, Netanyahu confirmed that Spain had been barred from participating in the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) based in Kiryat Gat.
“I have instructed today to remove Spain’s representatives from the coordination centre in Kiryat Gat, after Spain has repeatedly taken positions against Israel,” he said.
“Countries that choose to criticise Israel instead of confronting terrorist organisations cannot expect to play a role in shaping the region’s future.”
The CMCC, established under U.S. leadership following the Gaza ceasefire on October 10 is tasked with overseeing the truce and ensuring the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid into the territory.
It brings together military and diplomatic representatives from several countries, including France, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates, to coordinate responses to security and humanitarian challenges in Gaza. Spain had previously been part of the arrangement.
Netanyahu defended Israel’s decision, stressing that the country would respond firmly to what it views as external hostility.
“Israel will not remain silent in the face of those who target it,” he said.
“I will not tolerate this level of hypocrisy and antagonism. Any country that engages in a diplomatic campaign against us should expect consequences.”
Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez has been among the strongest critics of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which began after the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas.
He has also voiced opposition to joint U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, has previously criticised Spain, accusing it of aligning with adversarial forces and suggesting that its recognition of a Palestinian state has contributed to rising tensions.
Spain formally established diplomatic relations with Israel in 1986 after the death of long-time ruler Francisco Franco in 1975. Before then, Madrid maintained closer relations with Arab countries and did not recognise Israel.
The development underscores deepening diplomatic strains between the two countries at a time when international coordination remains crucial to addressing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and post-conflict recovery.
