Spain Halts Israeli Arms Contract Amid Rising Tensions
Spain has officially suspended the license for Israeli defense company Rafael’s local subsidiary, Pap Tecnos, to produce 168 Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles. These missiles were earmarked for the Spanish Army and Marine Corps as part of a €285 million ($325 million) deal that was announced in October 2023 but had not yet been finalized. The Spanish news agency EFE reported that Madrid has opted to revoke the contract and is presently considering alternatives for redirecting the missile production program.
Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría clarified that this decision reflects Spain’s intention to sever ties with Israeli military technology entirely. This move signifies a significant shift in Spain’s defense procurement strategy and aligns with growing international scrutiny of Israel’s military actions.
Spain’s Pressure on Israel
Spain has been increasingly vocal in its criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, emphasizing the need for stronger European Union action, including a cessation of arms sales to Israel. Last month, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares convened representatives from 20 European and Arab nations in Madrid to discuss diplomatic solutions aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing conflict. At this meeting, Albares urged the immediate suspension of the EU-Israel cooperation agreement and encouraged other EU member states to follow suit.
In a prior development, the Spanish government also took steps to cancel a €6.8 million ($7.7 million) contract for ammunition purchases from Israeli firm IMI Systems. This move reflects Spain’s more assertive position regarding the Gaza conflict and its diplomatic dealings with Israel. Notably, last June, Spain became the first European country to seek involvement in South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Furthermore, in May 2024, Madrid officially recognized the Palestinian state, joining Norway and Ireland in a coordinated diplomatic initiative that faced strong backlash from Israel, which has hinted at possible unilateral responses.
