Spanish–Israeli Relations, 1956–1992

Ghosts of the Past and Contemporary Challenges in the Middle East

Despite a common heritage dating back centuries and mutual national interests, such as their joint fear of Soviet influence across the Mediterranean, it took 38 years after the establishment of the State of Israel (1948) and a decade after Franco's death (1975) for relations to be established between Jerusalem and Madrid (1986). There was no apparent reason why both countries should not have established full diplomatic ties prior. By 1953, however, Israel began adopting a more pragmatic view. Post 1986 the ties between the two countries were overshadowed by strong international political forces – the Arab–Israeli conflict and the Israeli–Palestinian struggle – which delayed bilateral progress. Explaining the impact of these forces is key to understanding the relationship.