Spain's Youth Minister's Remarks Spark Diplomatic Row With Israel

Israel summoned Spain's acting ambassador for a reprimand on Monday following controversial remarks by Spain's Youth Minister, Sira Rego. The summons was ordered by Foreign Minister Gidon Saar, with the meeting conducted by Gilad Cohen, head of the diplomatic-strategic division at the Foreign Ministry.

Rego stated last week that "the position of Spanish society is clear: for a free Palestine from the river to the sea," adding that this view is shared by many in Spanish society. Israel's diplomatic mission in Spain condemned the statement, labeling it antisemitic and a slogan of hate.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry criticized Rego's remarks, asserting they express support for a vision that entails the erasure of the State of Israel. The reprimand aimed to clarify Israel's position to the Spanish representative.

Rego's comments come amid Spain's broader policy regarding the war and the Palestinian issue. She presented her remarks as reflecting the Spanish government's stance, including its support for recognizing a Palestinian state, imposing an arms embargo on Israel, and taking further measures against Israel. She also called for increased political and economic pressure on the Israeli government.

Israel's Foreign Ministry contends that instead of standing with Israel against terror threats, the Spanish government is pursuing a hostile policy. Spain, conversely, frames its actions as supporting Palestinian rights and advancing the establishment of a Palestinian state.