Israel, Spain and Sebta: A New Diplomatic Clash Over Migration

– bySaid · 1 min read
Israel, Spain and Sebta: A New Diplomatic Clash Over Migration

The migration crisis in Sebta has triggered a new diplomatic clash between Madrid and Tel Aviv. Israel’s ambassador to the UN attacked Spain over its presence in Sebta and Melilla, prompting a response from a Spanish minister.

Danny Danon took advantage of the massive arrival of migrants in Sebta to settle scores with the Spanish government. On the social network X, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations accused Madrid of regularly criticizing his country while declaring a state of emergency in the city.

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The diplomat then asked Spain to explain why it was still maintaining “colonial enclaves in Africa,” referring to Sebta and Melilla, two cities claimed by Morocco.

Spain’s Transport Minister, Óscar Puente, replied with an enigmatic phrase: “Everything is starting to become quite clear.” In Spain, his message was interpreted as an allusion to the possible political exploitation of the crisis against Pedro Sánchez’s government.

Several Spanish officials and commentators accuse Israel of seeking revenge against Madrid because of its position on the war in Gaza. Some even argue that the migratory pressure in Sebta serves the interests of Israel and its allies.

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Spain recognized the State of Palestine in May 2024 and has established itself as one of the European governments most critical of Israel’s offensive in Gaza.