Madrid: Spain has strongly opposed the Israeli government's plan to impose restrictions on the activities of its consulate in Jerusalem, following Madrid's recognition of a Palestinian state, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares stated on Friday.

During an interview with radio Onda Cero, Albares said, "This morning we sent a 'note verbale' to the Israeli government in which we reject any restriction on the normal activity of the Spanish consulate general in Jerusalem, as its status is guaranteed by international law."

He emphasized, "This status cannot therefore be changed unilaterally by Israel," and added that Madrid had requested Israel "to reverse this decision."

Earlier this week, Israel's foreign ministry had instructed the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem to cease offering consular services to Palestinians from June 1 in response to Madrid's recognition of a Palestinian state.

The ministry clarified that Spain's consulate in Jerusalem is "authorized to provide consular services to residents of the consular district of Jerusalem only, and is not authorized to provide services or perform consular activity vis-a-vis residents of the Palestinian Authority."

Israeli Foreign Minister described the move as a "punitive" measure following the Spanish government's recognition of a Palestinian state.

Israel has imposed restrictions on Spain's consulate in Jerusalem, stating it is "authorized to provide consular services to residents of the consular district of Jerusalem only, and is not authorized to provide services or perform consular activity vis-a-vis residents of the Palestinian Authority," the Israeli Foreign Ministry announced.

Israeli Foreign Minister referred to this as a "punitive" measure in response to Spain's recent recognition of a Palestinian state.

Spain, known for its critical stance on Israel, especially during the Gaza conflict, joined Ireland and Norway last week in announcing their decision to recognize the State of Palestine, effective from Tuesday, May 28. Israel responded with strong criticism against the move.

Spain, along with Ireland and Norway, recently announced their decision to recognize the State of Palestine from Tuesday, May 28, which drew strong criticism from Israel.

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