What it’s about
On Thursday, the Israeli Foreign Ministry summoned the ambassadors of Spain, Norway, and Ireland, Ana Sálomon Pérez, Per Egil Selvaag, and Sonya McGuinness, respectively, in protest of their countries’ unilateral decision to recognize a Palestinian state. The ambassadors were shown a distressing video of five Israeli female soldiers being taken captive by Hamas, highlighting the severe repercussions of supporting terrorist entities.
Why it matters
This diplomatic move underscores Israel’s strong opposition to unilateral actions recognizing Palestinian statehood, which Israel sees as undermining its security and encouraging terrorism. It was designed to highlight the profound human impact of such decisions and reinforce Israel’s stance against Hamas and similar terrorist activities.
Details
Shocking Footage
The highlighted video, released by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum and taken by Hamas body cameras, shows the abduction of Israeli soldiers Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy. These soldiers remain hostages in Gaza, and the video aims to draw attention to the personal toll of terrorism.
Diplomatic Reprimand
Despite Foreign Minister Israel Katz being away, senior Israeli diplomats proceeded with the reprimand ordered by Katz, emphasizing the misjudgement of recognizing a Palestinian state amidst ongoing acts of terror. Katz has openly criticized such recognitions, labeling them as ‘twisted decisions’ that disregard the complex realities on the ground.
Broader Implications
Israel plans further actions against these diplomats, including potential bans from official briefings. Spain’s Ana Sálomon Pérez expressed horror at the video and reaffirmed Spain’s friendship with Israel. This comes amid escalating tensions, especially since then-foreign minister Eli Cohen’s recall of Israel’s ambassador to Spain following controversial comments by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
Internal Pressures
The Israeli community in Spain has repeatedly condemned Spanish politicians for anti-Israel and antisemitic rhetoric. Instances include Youth and Children Minister Sira Rego’s defense of Palestinian resistance and Labor Minister Yolanda Díaz’s controversial speech. Such statements not only harm bilateral relations but also propagate antisemitism, putting Spanish Jews at risk.
The Bottom Line
Israel’s assertive diplomatic actions aim to convey a clear message: recognizing Palestinian statehood unilaterally, especially amid ongoing conflict and terrorism, undermines peace efforts and emboldens extremism. The country expects its friends and allies to stand firm against terrorism to ensure coexistence and safety for all.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.