Florida Republican Rep. Carlos A. Giménez resigned as co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus on Wednesday, citing what he described as Spain’s hostile stance toward Israel.

Giménez announced his departure in a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, stating he could no longer represent an organization meant to strengthen U.S.-Spain relations while the Spanish government’s policies toward Israel contradict shared democratic values. The move reflects widening divisions among Western allies over the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Congressman’s Accusations

In his letter, Giménez accused Spain of conducting a “hostile crusade” against Israel and normalizing antisemitic rhetoric. “Spain has normalized rhetoric that crosses the line from legitimate policy disagreement into raw antisemitism,” he wrote.

Giménez specifically criticized Spain’s decision to bar Israeli Defense Forces members and certain Israeli government officials from entering the country. He called the policy “unprecedented and shameful,” arguing it unfairly targets Israel’s military while Spain simultaneously legitimizes organizations seeking Israel’s destruction.

The congressman also objected to Spain’s military restrictions on Israel, including what he described as arms embargoes and defense transportation limitations. These actions place Spain “firmly on the wrong side of the global fight for freedom,” Giménez argued.

Spain’s Position

Spain has emerged among European nations taking a more critical stance toward Israel’s conduct during the conflict with Hamas. Supporters of the Sánchez government have maintained that its policies address humanitarian concerns and uphold international law.

Broader Implications

Giménez’s resignation underscores how Middle East policy disputes continue to strain relationships between Western allies. The disagreement extends diplomatic tensions well beyond the region itself, affecting bilateral ties between the United States and one of its oldest European partners.

The congressman expressed hope that Spain would eventually return to a foreign policy rooted in defending Western allies. “Until then, I can no longer lend my name to an organization intended to celebrate bilateral friendship while your government actively works to undermine democratic principles,” Giménez wrote.