Spain Halts Israeli Spike LR2 Missile Deal

In a significant move reflecting growing political tensions over the war in Gaza, Spain has suspended the license of Israeli defense company Rafael’s Spanish subsidiary, Pap Tecnos, halting the planned production of 168 Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles. These advanced missiles were set to be delivered to the Spanish Army and Marine Corps under a contract valued at €285 million (approximately $325 million), first announced in October 2023 but never finalized.

The Spanish government is now reassessing the program entirely, reportedly seeking alternative options for its military’s anti-tank capabilities. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría confirmed the decision, framing it as part of Spain’s effort to fully disengage from reliance on Israeli military technology amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

This latest step is one of several bold actions Spain has taken to protest Israel’s military campaign in the Palestinian territories. In recent months, Spain has emerged as one of Europe’s most vocal critics of Israeli actions in Gaza, calling for stronger European Union measures and a freeze on arms trade with Israel. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has been particularly active on the diplomatic front. Just weeks ago, he hosted a high-level meeting in Madrid with representatives from 20 European and Arab nations to explore pathways to peace and urged the EU to suspend its cooperation agreement with Israel.

The missile deal cancellation follows an earlier decision by Spain to revoke a €6.8 million ($7.7 million) bullet purchase contract with Israeli weapons manufacturer IMI Systems. These moves align with Madrid’s increasingly assertive posture on the Israel-Palestine issue, signaling a clear departure from previous military-industrial cooperation.

Spain’s criticism of Israel has also reached international legal forums. In June 2023, it became the first European country to express interest in participating in South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The decision was a milestone in Spain’s evolving foreign policy, positioning itself firmly in favor of Palestinian rights.

In May 2024, Madrid officially recognized the State of Palestine, joining Norway and Ireland in a coordinated diplomatic announcement that drew immediate backlash from Israel. In response, Israeli officials hinted at potential diplomatic or economic reprisals against the countries involved.

Spain’s actions are being closely watched in Europe and beyond, with analysts noting that its hardening stance could influence broader EU policy. While the future of the suspended missile contract remains uncertain, what’s clear is that Spain is reshaping its defense and diplomatic priorities in direct response to the conflict in Gaza — a shift with potentially long-term implications for EU-Israel relations.