Netanyahu removes Spain from Gaza coordination centre due to perceived hostility

Israel’s Netanyahu Accuses Spain of Launching Diplomatic Campaign Against Country

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Spain of launching a diplomatic campaign against Israel, citing the country’s refusal to participate in a coordination center overseeing a Gaza “ceasefire.” In a video statement posted on X, Netanyahu stated that Israel would not remain silent in the face of those who attack it. He also instructed the removal of Spanish representatives from the coordination center in Kiryat Gat.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, slamming Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and his government for making “blood libels” against Israel and its army. Saar stated that Spain’s anti-Israel bias has rendered it incapable of serving a constructive role in implementing US peace plans.

The deterioration in relations between the two countries began with Israel’s military operation in Gaza in October 2023. Since then, Spain has recognized Palestine as a state, and Sanchez’s government has spoken out against Palestinian mistreatment in the occupied territory. The country also opposed the US-Israel war on Iran, which began on February 28.

The Civil-Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) is a US-led base that monitors the “ceasefire” and facilitates humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued near-daily attacks on Gaza, with limitations on vital aid deliveries still in place.

Source: Al Jazeera