Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has sharply intensified his criticism of Israel by calling it a “genocidal state”—a first from the country’s top leadership. His remarks have drawn strong diplomatic backlash from Israel, which quickly summoned the Spanish ambassador in response.
The comment came during a session in parliament when Catalan politician Gabriel Rufián questioned Sánchez for continuing trade ties with Israel amid the conflict in Gaza. Responding to the critique, the Spanish leader said his government does not engage in business with a genocidal state, firmly defending his stance.
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Spanish media noted this is the first time Sánchez has publicly used such a term for Israel, marking a noticeable shift in tone. His statement mirrors the position of Spain’s Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz, who has also accused Israel of committing genocide and has urged for cutting economic links.
Israel’s move to summon the Spanish envoy reflects worsening relations between the two countries, as global scrutiny of the situation in Gaza increases. Humanitarian concerns and the rising civilian death toll have led to growing international calls for restraint, though Sánchez’s remark is among the strongest from a European leader so far.
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While the Spanish government has not yet officially announced any policy changes, Sánchez’s words may signal a more confrontational approach in the coming days. Observers believe this could lead to further strain in diplomatic and economic ties between Spain and Israel.