Spain Ditches Israeli Missile Deal, Moving Away from Israeli Tech
Spain rescinds deal for anti-tank missiles, manufactured by an Israeli affiliate.
Spain's government is disconnecting itself from Israeli military technology, scrapping a deal for anti-tank missile systems. The $325 million deal for 168 SPIKE LR2 systems, set to be manufactured in Madrid by Pap Tecnos, a Spanish subsidiary of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, has been axed.
According to spokesperson, Pilar Alegría, the move is aimed at severing ties with Israeli technology entirely. The government is currently assessing the decision's impact.
Rafael and Pap Tecnos have yet to comment on the matter, while Spain's Defense Ministry referred queries to the former. Reports indicate that Spain approved this deal just four days before an assault by Hamas on southern Israel in October 2023 - a war in Gaza ensued. At the time, authorities argued that Spain's existing army missile systems were outdated, requiring replacement with advanced versions like those used by allied armies.
However, Spain's leftist government halted arms exports to Israel since October 2023, although some shipments apparently slipped through. Additionally, Spain recognized a Palestinian state in May 2024, in coordination with Norway and Ireland. A month later, Spain requested the International Court of Justice's permission to join a case against Israel, alleging genocide in Gaza. Israel denies these accusations.
Behind the Decision
The cancellation of the deal stems from political and humanitarian concerns, as well as international pressure and legal actions. Spain seeks to redefine its strategic alliances, reducing its reliance on Israeli technology.
The cancellation raises military and defense concerns, as Spain's defense capabilities will suffer a blow. Alternative solutions for anti-tank capabilities will be necessary. The economic implications also extend beyond the contract's approximate €287 million value, impacting the activities of Spanish companies involved in the production under license.
Diplomatically, Spain's decision could impact future collaborations in defense and technology sectors, signaling a significant shift in Spain's relationship with Israel. The move parallels broader European and international policy stance adjustments. Internationally, this decision could influence other countries' military collaborations with Israel, contributing to ongoing debates about Israel's actions in Gaza.
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- Given Spain's decision to cancel the Israeli anti-tank missile deal, there are growing concerns about the country's future alliances in the defense and technology sectors, particularly with regard to Israel.
- The business implications of Spain's cancellation of the deal extend beyond the contract's €287 million value, potentially impacting the activities of Spanish companies involved in the production under license, both in the defense industry and beyond.
- Politically, Spain's decision to cancel the deal could signal a significant shift in its relationship with Israel, and may serve as a precedent for other countries reevaluating their military collaborations with Israel in light of humanitarian and political concerns.
- Internationally, the cancellation of the deal and Spain's broader policy stance adjustments could contribute to ongoing debates about the ethical and political implications of military collaborations, specifically in relation to Israeli actions in regions like Gaza.
