Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez spoke with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz today, Friday, in an attempt to ease tensions between the two countries after comments made by Sánchez sparked anger in Israel for the second time in a week. Sánchez stated today that he "told Gantz over the phone that Israel is a 'partner and friend of Spain'." Gantz previously held the position of Minister of Defense and joined Netanyahu in the emergency unity government last month.
Sánchez wrote in a post on X: "Israel has the right to defend itself against this attack, but I reaffirm that Spain finds the killing of civilians in Gaza unacceptable, and Israel must comply with international humanitarian law."
Gantz also wrote on X that he confirmed to Sánchez "that for the sake of Israel's security and the sense of security of Israeli civilians, as well as restoring regional stability, Hamas in Gaza must be eliminated." Gantz added on X: "I emphasized to the Prime Minister that the State of Israel places great importance on avoiding civilian casualties or injuries as much as possible. However, Hamas continues to commit horrific crimes against humanity, such as using children and women as human shields in its activities."
