Spain Rejects Israeli Restrictions on Jerusalem Consulate

Spain has rejected Israel's planned restrictions on its Jerusalem consulate following Madrid's recognition of a Palestinian state. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares stated that the consulate's status is protected by international law. Israel's foreign ministry labeled this a punitive measure and announced that consular services to Palestinians would be halted from June 1.

Spain has rejected the restrictions that Israel plans to impose on the activities of its consulate in Jerusalem.

This move comes in response to Madrid's recognition of a Palestinian state, according to Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.

The Spanish government has sent a 'note verbale' to the Israeli government to reject any limitations on the Spanish consulate's normal activities, emphasizing that its status is protected by international law and cannot be unilaterally changed by Israel.

Spain has also requested Israel to reverse its decision.

Israel's foreign ministry stated that starting June 1, the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem would no longer be permitted to offer consular services to Palestinians, calling it a 'punitive' measure following Spain's recognition of a Palestinian state.

Spain is among the European nations critical of Israel for its actions in Gaza, and recently joined Ireland and Norway in recognizing the State of Palestine.