Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a sharp rebuke of Spain, accusing the country of defaming Israeli soldiers and siding against Israel.

This comes after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has led intense European criticism against Israel, labeling its actions in Lebanon and Gaza “criminal” and “illegal”. Spain has also prohibited weapons-related traffic to Israel, permanently withdrawn its ambassador, and pushed for EU sanctions.

“Israel will not remain silent in the face of those who attack us,” Netanyahu said. “Spain has defamed our heroes, the soldiers of the IDF, the soldiers of the most moral army in the world.”

In response, Netanyahu announced immediate action, saying he has instructed officials to remove Spain’s representatives from the coordination center in Kiryat Gat.

The Prime Minister accused Spain of repeatedly taking positions hostile to Israel, adding, “Those who attack the State of Israel instead of terrorist regimes will not be our partners regarding the future of the region.”

He closed with a firm warning: “I am not willing to tolerate this hypocrisy and hostility. I do not intend to allow any country to wage a diplomatic war against us without paying an immediate price.”