As the diplomatic crisis between Madrid and Tel Aviv deepened, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hardened his rhetoric, openly calling Israel a “genocidal state.” This verbal escalation translated into concrete measures in two parallel axes: increased pressure on Israel and strengthened support for the Palestinians. On one hand, Spain joined the legal proceedings initiated by South Africa in the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Israel of genocide. On the other hand, Spain increased its aid to Gaza and the Palestinian Authority (PA) and recognized the state of Palestine. These developments culminated in the adoption of several measures against Israel in September 2025, bringing Spain-Israel relations to their lowest level in decades.
The interaction between these dynamics has reignited the debate on the determinants of Spanish policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Some observers believe that Spain’s position reflects its long-standing sympathy for the Palestinian cause and historically tense relations with Israel. Others highlight circumstantial factors, including Sánchez’s left-wing government, a highly sensitized public opinion, a mobilized civil society, and increasing polarization.
This briefing argues that, although it may seem surprising, Spain’s more assertive position is consistent with its long-standing approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. What is relatively new, however, is the intensity of Spain’s criticism towards Israel and its willingness to translate its commitments into concrete political and legal measures.
(FACT CHECK: The content is focused on the diplomatic conflict between Spain and Israel, highlighting Spain’s increased pressure on Israel and support for Palestinians.) (FACT CHECK: The article also discusses the factors influencing Spain’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.)
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