A Florida Republican congressman withdrew as co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus, citing what he called the Spanish government’s hostile policies toward Israel.
Rep. Carlos A. Giménez announced his departure in a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, saying he could no longer serve in the role given Spain’s recent actions. The move reflects deepening divisions among Western allies over the Middle East conflict and its ripple effects on international diplomacy.
What Prompted the Withdrawal
Giménez accused Spain’s government of escalating what he described as a “hostile crusade” against Israel while the country faces security threats. “Spain has normalized rhetoric that crosses the line from legitimate policy disagreement into raw antisemitism,” Giménez wrote in the letter.
Among his key criticisms was Spain’s reported decision to prohibit Israel Defense Forces members and certain Israeli government officials from entering the country. Giménez called the policy “unprecedented and shameful,” arguing it unfairly targets Israeli military personnel while legitimizing terrorist organizations.
The congressman also objected to Spain’s restrictions on military cooperation with Israel, including what he characterized as arms embargoes and defense transportation limits. He argued those measures place Spain “firmly on the wrong side of the global fight for freedom.”
The Congressman’s Position
Giménez, a proud Cuban-American, emphasized his long career defending democracy and strengthening U.S.-Spain relations. “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,” he wrote.
He stated the Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus was designed to strengthen bilateral relations based on shared democratic values. According to Giménez, Spain’s recent policies demonstrate the Sánchez government no longer upholds those principles.
The Broader Context
The dispute reflects continuing divisions among Western allies over Israel’s military campaign and the humanitarian dimensions of the conflict. Spain has taken a more critical stance toward Israel’s conduct during the war, while the Sánchez government has framed its policies as addressing humanitarian concerns and upholding international law.
“I remain hopeful that Spain will one day return to a foreign policy rooted in the defense of Western allies and moral clarity against terrorism,” Giménez wrote. His decision underscores how disagreements over the Middle East continue shaping diplomatic relationships across continents.
This story has been updated. CNN’s political team contributed to this report.
