Diplomatic tensions between Spain and Israel have heightened as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized comments made by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who expressed "serious doubts" about whether Israel was adhering to international humanitarian law in Gaza.
Sanchez, speaking on Spanish state TV network RTVE, condemned Hamas for its actions in Israel but also urged Israel to base its actions on international humanitarian law. He voiced concerns about the growing number of victims, particularly children, and expressed doubts about Israel's compliance with international humanitarian law.
In response to Sanchez's remarks, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office summoned the Spanish Ambassador to Israel for a reprimand, referring to the comments as "shameful."
This incident follows a similar confrontation last week when Israel accused Sanchez of supporting terrorism after he criticized the Israeli offensive on Gaza. Last week's criticism led to the summoning of Spain's ambassador to Israel for a rebuke.
Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen responded to Sanchez's recent comments, emphasizing that Israel is acting in accordance with international law and will continue its operations until all hostages are returned and Hamas is eliminated from Gaza. Cohen further announced the recall of Israel's Ambassador to Madrid, Rodica Radian-Gordon, for consultations in response to what he deemed "baseless accusations" by the Spanish leader.
(With Agency Inputs)
ALSO READ | Israel Resumes Combat Operations in Gaza Following Alleged Violation of Truce by Hamas
ALSO READ | Israel Frees Additional 30 Palestinian Prisoners Amid Looming Expiry of Gaza Truce Today