Israeli NGO files ICC lawsuit against Spain’s PM over Iran exports
An Israeli legal group wants the ICC to investigate Spain's PM over exports to Iran that may have fueled deadly attacks.
International Criminal Court – (Web Desk) – An Israeli advocacy group has taken its grievances to the world’s highest criminal court, asking the International Criminal Court (ICC) to look into whether Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez played a role in “helping war crimes” by allowing exports to Iran.
This legal move comes at a time when Spain and Israel are not exactly on good terms. The two countries have been at odds since the Gaza conflict broke out in October 2023, and things got even more tense when Spain officially recognized Palestine as a state the following year.
The group behind the complaint is Shurat HaDin, an organization known for taking legal battles across the globe against those it considers hostile to Israel. They claim that Spain allowed the sale of parts and materials worth around 1.3 million euros to Iran — items that could potentially be used in weapons, including detonators and explosive devices.
Their argument is straightforward: these weren’t just everyday industrial goods. According to the group, these materials could very realistically end up being used in attacks on civilians, making Spain indirectly responsible.
Meanwhile, the wider regional picture has been turbulent. On February 28, Israel and the United States launched strikes against Iran, which responded with missiles and drones targeting several countries in the region. Thankfully, a fragile ceasefire eventually came into effect last week.
As for Spain and Israel’s relationship — it has gone from cool to icy. Ever since the Gaza war began, Spanish PM Sanchez has been one of Israel’s loudest critics on the world stage, which has only deepened the rift between the two nations.
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Spain’s Socialist leader has also opposed the US-Israeli war with Iran, drawing a sharp Israeli reaction.
Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu barred Madrid from joining the work of a US-led centre to stabilise post-war Gaza, accusing Spain of waging a diplomatic campaign against Israel.
Both countries have withdrawn their ambassadors.
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