Rep. Carlos A. Giménez has stepped down as co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Spain Caucus, citing what he called the Spanish government’s increasingly hostile approach toward Israel amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
In a letter addressed to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, the Florida Republican said his decision was made with regret, emphasizing Spain’s long-standing cultural, historical, and economic ties to the United States, particularly with South Florida. Giménez noted that he has spent years working to strengthen relations between the two countries but believes Spain’s recent foreign policy no longer reflects the democratic values the caucus was created to support.
The congressman criticized Sánchez’s government for its handling of Israel, arguing that its rhetoric has moved beyond policy disagreements and into language he believes encourages antisemitism. He also condemned Spain’s reported restrictions on members of the Israel Defense Forces and certain Israeli officials entering the country, calling the policy “unprecedented and shameful.”
Giménez further objected to Spain’s limitations on military cooperation with Israel, including reported arms restrictions and transportation policies affecting defense operations. He argued these measures weaken Western alliances and send the wrong message while Israel continues to face threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and other militant groups.
In his letter, Giménez expressed hope that Spain will eventually return to what he described as a foreign policy centered on defending democratic allies and confronting terrorism. Until then, he said he could no longer remain associated with a caucus dedicated to celebrating U.S.-Spain relations.
The dispute reflects broader divisions among Western allies over the Israel-Hamas conflict. Spain has taken a more critical position toward Israel’s military operations, with the Sánchez government maintaining that its policies are intended to promote humanitarian protections and uphold international law. Giménez’s resignation highlights how differing views on the conflict continue to influence diplomatic relationships far beyond the Middle East.
