Israel demands Spain to halt consular services for Palestinians starting June 1

The diplomatic tension between the European Union and Israel reached a boiling point as EU members Spain and Ireland prepared to formally recognize a Palestinian state. The move, set to take place on Tuesday, has sparked a fierce backlash from Israeli officials, with Foreign Minister Katz warning Spain that its consulate in Jerusalem will not be allowed to assist Palestinians.

The EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, threw his support behind the International Criminal Court, which is seeking an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders. Borrell condemned the Israeli attacks in the southern Gaza city of Rafah and suggested that sanctions should be considered against Israel for its actions.

In response, Katz accused Spain of “rewarding terror” and invoked historical references to the Spanish Inquisition, stating that Israel will not be forced to convert its religion or threaten its existence. The escalating war of words between the two sides has highlighted the deep divisions over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within the EU.

The recent violence in Gaza, which saw Hamas militants storming across the border into Israel and Israeli airstrikes killing dozens of Palestinians in Rafah, has further strained relations between the EU and Israel. The UN’s International Court of Justice has called for an immediate halt to Israel’s offensive in Rafah, adding to the international pressure on Israel to end the violence.

Despite the criticism from Israeli authorities, Spain, Ireland, and Norway are set to officially recognize a Palestinian state on Tuesday. The joint announcement last week prompted Israeli authorities to summon the ambassadors of the three countries to the Foreign Ministry in Tel Aviv, a move that was condemned by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares.

Albares emphasized the importance of diplomatic courtesy and the need to focus on achieving a permanent ceasefire and lasting peace in the region. The recognition of a Palestinian state by EU members reflects a growing international consensus on the need for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

As tensions continue to rise, the EU-Israel relations face a challenging road ahead, with the prospect of further diplomatic clashes and international pressure on Israel to end its offensive in Gaza. The recognition of a Palestinian state by EU members marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict and underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.