Rep. Carlos Giménez Steps Down From Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus Over Israel Policy Dispute
Rep. Carlos A. Giménez (R-Fla.) has announced his resignation as co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus, citing concerns over the Spanish government’s policies toward Israel. The move highlights growing diplomatic tensions between Western allies as the conflict in the Middle East continues to influence international relations.
In a letter addressed to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, Giménez said his decision was made reluctantly, emphasizing the longstanding historical, cultural, and economic ties between the United States and Spain. He noted that, throughout his public career, he has supported efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two nations.
However, Giménez argued that Spain’s recent approach toward Israel made it impossible for him to continue serving in the bipartisan caucus. He accused the Sánchez government of adopting policies and rhetoric that, in his view, unfairly target Israel while it continues to face security threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and other militant groups.
Among his criticisms, Giménez pointed to reports that Spain has restricted entry for members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and certain Israeli government officials. He described the reported policy as inconsistent with the values shared by democratic allies and argued that it sends the wrong message during an ongoing regional conflict.
The Florida congressman also criticized Spain’s reported limits on military cooperation with Israel, including restrictions affecting defense-related activities. According to Giménez, such actions weaken solidarity among democratic partners and undermine broader Western security interests.
“The Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus exists to strengthen the relationship between our two democracies based on shared values,” Giménez wrote, adding that he hopes Spain will eventually return to what he described as a foreign policy centered on supporting democratic allies and confronting terrorism.
Spain has been among several European nations that have taken a more critical position regarding Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Spanish officials have maintained that their policies are intended to uphold international law and address humanitarian concerns arising from the conflict.
Giménez’s resignation reflects the broader divisions that have emerged among Western allies over the Israel-Hamas war. As governments continue to balance security, humanitarian, and diplomatic priorities, disagreements over Middle East policy are increasingly affecting relationships beyond the region and influencing political debate on both sides of the Atlantic.
