In a recent social media post, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez accused Israel of violating international law by attacking a civilian flotilla in waters that do not belong to them. Sánchez stated that Spain is doing everything possible to protect and assist the detained Spaniards, but believes more action is needed. He called on the EU to immediately suspend the association agreement with Israel and demand that Prime Minister Netanyahu respect maritime law.
The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs previously condemned Israel’s military intervention near the coast of Crete and confirmed that Spanish citizens were on board the flotilla. The 175 detained activists (211 according to organizers) will be taken to Greece in the coming hours, as announced by Israeli authorities.
This incident has heightened tensions between Israel and Spain, which have had strained relations for years. The Spanish government, which along with Ireland and Norway recognized Palestine as a state in May 2024, has been critical of Netanyahu’s government. Spain has voiced opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza and the joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.
Pedro Sánchez’s latest statement adds to the ongoing friction between the two countries. In 2025, Sánchez even expressed admiration for pro-Palestinian protesters who disrupted the Vuelta cycling race in Madrid.
