Spanish Foreign Minister Trinidad Jimenez
Photo: AFP
Jerusalem rebukes Spanish envoy over PA statement
Ambassador Alvaro Iranzo explains Madrid's support of Palestinian bid for statehood depends on EU's stance, requests phrasing before UN
The Foreign Ministry summoned Spain's ambassador to Israel on Monday, following a statement by Spanish Foreign Minister Trinidad Jimenez suggesting that Madrid will support the Palestinian Authority UN bid for statehood in September.
Naor Gilon, head of the Foreign Ministry's European Division, expressed disappointment in Jimenez's statement, saying Madrid's stance was surprising "especially given the excellent bilateral relations between the two nations."
UN Showdown
Spanish foreign affairs minster hopes EU foreign ministers' meeting Sept 2 will further recognition bid for Palestinian state, says 'we have to give them some signal'
Iranzo stressed that Madrid would not be able to support the PA's bid unless it was "phrased in a balanced way and addresses the need the resume negotiations between the parties, and maintain Israel's security. Without these parameters, Spain will not be able to support the request."
Deputy Foreign Minister Daniel Ayalon is expected to arrive in Madrid on Wednesday to discuss the matter further with several senior members of the Spanish government.
Elior Levy contributed to this report
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