Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares (Credit: Reuters)
Spain summons 'Israeli' envoy after Gaza-bound flotilla intercepted
Spain summoned 'Israel’s' top diplomatic representative in Madrid on Thursday following the interception of a Gaza-bound flotilla carrying activists and humanitarian aid, Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares confirmed.
“Today I summoned the charge d'affaires here in Madrid,” Albares told public broadcaster TVE, noting that 65 Spaniards were among those traveling with the flotilla.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. 'Israel' had withdrawn its ambassador to Madrid last year after Spain officially recognized a Palestinian state.
The flotilla, aiming to deliver aid to the beleaguered population of Gaza, was stopped by 'Israeli' forces, prompting Spain to take diplomatic action to express concern for the safety of its citizens and the interruption of humanitarian efforts.