Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that Spain has been removed from the Civil-Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, which oversees the Gaza ceasefire. In a video statement posted on X, Netanyahu accused Spain of waging a diplomatic war against Israel and defaming Israeli soldiers. He said Israel would not remain silent against those who attack it. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar echoed the criticism, accusing Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of spreading false accusations and claiming Spain could no longer play a constructive role in implementing the U.S. peace plan.

Relations between Israel and Spain have sharply deteriorated since Israel launched its war on Gaza in October 2023. Spain’s recognition of the state of Palestine and its condemnation of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians further strained ties. The Spanish government also opposed the U.S.-Israel war on Iran that began on February 28, closing its airspace to U.S. aircraft involved in the conflict.

The CMCC, established by the United States as part of Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to end the Gaza war, coordinates ceasefire monitoring and humanitarian aid. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli attacks on Gaza and restrictions on aid deliveries continue.