MADRID, Spain: Spain has firmly rejected the restrictions Israel plans to impose on its consulate in Jerusalem following Madrid’s recognition of a Palestinian state, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares announced on Friday.
In a radio interview with Onda Cero, Albares revealed that Spain had sent a formal diplomatic note to the Israeli government, rejecting any limitations on the Spanish consulate general’s normal activities in Jerusalem. He emphasized that the consulate’s status is protected by international law and cannot be unilaterally altered by Israel. Albares urged Israel to reverse its decision.
Earlier this week, Israel’s foreign ministry informed the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem to cease offering consular services to Palestinians starting June 1. This directive came in response to Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state. According to Israel, the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem is only authorized to provide services to residents within the consular district of Jerusalem and not to residents of the Palestinian Authority.
Israeli Foreign Minister described the move as a “punitive” measure against Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state. This recognition has drawn significant backlash from Israel, especially since Spain is among the European countries most critical of Israel regarding the Gaza conflict.
Recently, Spain, Ireland, and Norway announced their decision to recognize the State of Palestine, effective May 28, leading to a strong rebuke from Israel.
