Rep. Carlos A. Giménez, a Florida Republican, withdrew as co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus on Tuesday, citing what he called the Spanish government’s hostile policies toward Israel.
Giménez announced his departure in a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, stating he could no longer represent an organization celebrating bilateral friendship while Spain’s government, in his view, undermines democratic principles. The move reflects widening divisions among Western allies over Israel’s military operations in the Middle East.
What Prompted the Withdrawal
Giménez accused Spain’s government of escalating a “hostile crusade” against Israel while the country faces threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. He specifically criticized Spain’s reported decision to prohibit Israeli Defense Forces members and certain Israeli government officials from entering the country, calling the policy “unprecedented and shameful.”
The congressman also objected to Spain’s restrictions on military cooperation with Israel, including arms embargoes and limits on defense transportation. “To bar the brave men and women of the IDF while your political apparatus simultaneously legitimizes terrorist networks is a betrayal of Western values,” Giménez wrote.
The Broader Dispute
Giménez contended that Spain has moved beyond legitimate policy disagreement with Israel into territory he described as antisemitic rhetoric. “Spain has normalized rhetoric that crosses the line from legitimate policy disagreement into raw antisemitism,” he stated in his letter.
The Cuban-American lawmaker emphasized his reluctance in making the decision, noting Spain’s historical, cultural, and economic ties to the United States and South Florida. “As a proud Cuban-American and a steadfast defender of democracy, international security, and the U.S. alliance network, I did not make this decision lightly,” Giménez wrote.
European Divisions Over Israel
Giménez’s departure underscores how disagreements over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continue to fracture relationships among Western democracies. Several European governments have adopted more critical stances toward Israel’s military campaign, with supporters of those positions citing humanitarian concerns and international law.
The Spanish government has defended its policies as addressing humanitarian issues and maintaining compliance with international standards. Giménez expressed hope that Spain would eventually return to policies aligned with Western democratic values.