Israel PM Accuses Spain PM of Genocidal Threat Amid Gaza Dispute

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of issuing a 'blatant genocidal threat' against Israel following Sanchez's remarks lamenting Spain's lack of nuclear weapons to stop Israel's actions in Gaza. Sanchez announced an arms embargo on Israel and measures including banning ships, aircraft, and individuals implicated in 'genocide' from entering Spain, actions rooted in his condemnation of Israel's military conduct. Netanyahu's office condemned Sanchez's comments as threatening and evoked historical persecutions of Jews by Spain. The dispute escalated tensions between Israel and Spain, with Madrid responding strongly to Netanyahu's accusations and pulling its envoy from Israel. Critics of Sanchez on social media condemned his nuclear remarks, while others suggested his words may have been taken out of context. Spain has recognized a Palestinian state and remains a vocal critic of Israel's Gaza offensive, while Israel denies allegations of genocide and is contesting related claims at the International Court of Justice.