Spain formally dismisses ambassador to Israel amid tensions with Tel Aviv

Spain formally dismisses ambassador to Israel amid tensions with Tel Aviv

Spain’s administration has formally removed Ana Sálomon from her role as ambassador to Israel, as confirmed in the official gazette on Tuesday. This action followed approval by the Council of Ministers, leaving the embassy in Tel Aviv temporarily led by a chargé d’affaires, a lower-ranking diplomatic position. The move signals a shift in Spain’s representation, reducing its presence from ambassadorial to deputy level.

Sálomon was recalled in September 2025 after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced steps to halt what he called a genocide in Gaza. Israel’s military campaign in the region intensified following Hamas attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar immediately criticized Sánchez, accusing him of antisemitism, and restricted entry for two of his ministers into Israel. This escalation has further strained the already tenuous relationship between the two nations.

In May 2024, Israel responded to Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state by recalling its ambassador to Madrid, Rodica Radian-Gordon. A replacement was anticipated, but the chosen candidate withdrew to accept another assignment. Netanyahu’s government then failed to appoint a new representative, leaving the Israeli post vacant. The embassy in Madrid is now managed by Chargé d’Affaires Dana Erlich.

“Genocide in Gaza” – a phrase used by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to describe the situation in the region.

“Antisemitism” – a term Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Sánchez of promoting.