Spain Condemns Israeli Strikes and Escalation in Middle East as Sánchez Attacks Netanyahu’s ‘Intolerable’ Conduct

Madrid / 10 April 2026 

The Government of Spain has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s recent military actions in Lebanon and the broader escalation involving Iran, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez accusing Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu of showing “contempt for life and international law”.

The remarks come amid intensifying regional violence following Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon that have reportedly killed hundreds and further destabilised an already fragile ceasefire environment.

Speaking publicly and via social media, Sánchez described the situation as unacceptable, renewing calls for accountability and a stronger European response. His comments mark one of the most direct criticisms of Israel by a Western leader in recent weeks.

Spain Escalates Diplomatic Pressure

Spain has taken a series of concrete steps in response to the crisis, including:

• Calling for the European Union to suspend its association agreement with Israel
• Closing Spanish airspace to aircraft linked to the conflict
• Refusing the use of Spanish military bases for operations connected to the war in Iran
• Moving to reopen its embassy in Tehran to support diplomatic engagement

Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares told MPs that the current conflict represents a fundamental threat to global order.

“We are facing one of the greatest assaults on the civilisation built on reason, peace and international law,” Albares said, warning against a return to “the darkest moments of history”.

Growing Rift with the United States

Madrid’s stance has placed it at odds with the United States, particularly under President Donald Trump, who has supported Israeli military operations and warned of consequences for NATO allies that refuse alignment.

Spain has consistently opposed what it describes as “unilateral and illegal” military action, reiterating its long-standing position of “no to war” and prioritising international law and diplomacy.

Tensions have escalated to the point of:

Threats of trade restrictions from Washington

• Discussions in US political circles about relocating military bases from Spain
• Broader concerns about NATO unity and future transatlantic cooperation

A Leading European Voice Against Escalation

Sánchez has emerged as one of Europe’s most outspoken critics of the war, warning that Israeli operations in Lebanon risk replicating the devastation seen in Gaza and could further inflame regional instability.

He has also criticised the broader conduct of the conflict, stating that:

“You cannot respond to illegality with more illegality,” and warning that such actions risk undermining the global rules-based order.   

Despite criticism from Israel, including accusations of siding with Iran, Spain maintains that its position is rooted in defence of international law, human rights, and multilateral diplomacy.

Domestic Support and European Implications

Domestically, Sánchez’s stance appears to have public backing, with recent polling indicating increased support for his government’s anti-war position.

The crisis is also raising wider questions across Europe about:

• Strategic autonomy from the United States
• The future of NATO cohesion
• The EU’s role in conflict resolution and enforcement of international law
• Call for De-escalation
• The Spanish government continues to call for:
• Immediate de-escalation
• Respect for ceasefire agreements
• Renewed diplomatic negotiations involving all parties

Sánchez has emphasised that short-term ceasefires must not distract from the broader consequences of the conflict, warning that lasting peace will require accountability and adherence to international norms.