Las puertas siguen abiertas

The Acting Ambassador asserts that the invasion of Gaza could end «tomorrow» if Hamas releases the hostages and relinquishes military and governmental power.

The Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Israel, Dan Poraz, affirms that the relationship with Spain is not severed, although acknowledging it is not in its best state. «The doors are still open,» he states.

Speaking at an informative breakfast at a hotel in Santiago de Compostela, Poraz – currently serving as Acting Ambassador due to the absence of an official appointment in Madrid for a year – emphasizes that the relations are «far from broken,» but differences exist.

During a press encounter with security personnel posted at the breakfast room entrance, he notes the «constant dialogue» between Israel and Spain at the official level, mentioning a recent meeting in Germany between the Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, and his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar.

He highlights that Spain perceives the conflict as a «war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip,» whereas Israelis view it as a «regional conflict with multiple fronts,» with Gaza being just one of the areas from which Israel is attacked. «We believe the Spanish government does not grasp the challenges we are facing,» he emphasizes.

The Business Attache at the Embassy of Israel in Spain underscores that the bilateral relations have seen better days and hopes for improvement. He expresses confusion as to why they are being pressured instead of Hamas, stating, «The key to ending this war is to pressure Hamas, not Israel.»

Poraz holds Hamas accountable for the «genocidal attack» of October 7, 2023, framing it within a plan for Israel’s destruction orchestrated by various fronts with Iran as the «head of the serpent» in the «axis of evil.»

Regarding the commercial relationship following the cancellation of arms purchase contracts, the Trade Officer laments that Spain’s decision is unfortunate for Spanish interests and security. «I imagine the Civil Guard needs its bullets and guns,» he summarizes.

He acknowledges that Israel has many friends in Spain, citing the support in the popular vote at Eurovision. He criticizes RTVE for airing what he deems as a «shameful» anti-Israeli political message.

THE INVASION COULD END «TOMORROW»

Concerning the Israeli invasion of Gaza, Poraz suggests that it could end «tomorrow morning» if Hamas agrees to release the 58 men and women still held captive in their tunnels in Gaza, provided that Hamas will have no power in Gaza after the war, neither militarily nor governmentally.

He emphasizes that «this war must end as soon as possible» after an unbearable toll, with 900 Israeli soldiers killed and a grave situation in Gaza. «We are not indifferent to this suffering and pain,» he emphasizes.

Accusing Hamas of being committed to Israel’s destruction, which is difficult for Europeans to comprehend, Poraz asserts that the terrorist organization cannot have any power.

He mentions that Hamas holds 58 hostages, with an estimated 20 to 23 still alive. He doubts that any country, even the Spanish government, would accept «giving up their citizens kidnapped in their homes in pajamas.»

Asked about Palestinian claims of over 50,000 deaths from the Israeli offensive, Poraz mentions that the death toll data comes solely from Hamas’s Health Minister. He clarifies that around 20,000 of the deceased were Hamas «soldiers.»

A NEW CEASEFIRE?

The Acting Ambassador indicates that negotiations for a ceasefire are ongoing, emphasizing that Hamas is weaker.

He recounts a ceasefire period from January 19 to March 18, during which humanitarian aid flowed without restrictions. He blames Hamas for breaking that truce.

«Israel has no interest in creating a humanitarian crisis in Gaza,» he states. He mentions a new humanitarian aid distribution system that will improve in the coming days to ensure adequate delivery levels.

Looking ahead to Gaza’s future post-conflict, Poraz advocates for a multi-Arab administration to govern Gaza temporarily. He deems it unacceptable for Hamas to continue governing as it would only lead to another attack in due time.

DISTANCING FROM FRIENDLY COUNTRIES

When asked about recent distancing from traditionally allied countries like Germany or the United States, Poraz interprets it as a «critique among friends.»

«We are listening to the voices of our friends,» he asserts, acknowledging the severity of the situation in Gaza. However, he asserts that Israel must live in its reality, as Germans and Americans do not fully understand their problems, risks, and threats. «That’s why we don’t agree on everything,» he affirms.

ISRAELI INTERNAL SCENARIO

Regarding internal criticisms within Israeli society about the invasion, Poraz characterizes it as a polarized society and notes the democratic nature of the protests, contrasting it with the courage of Palestinians who have demonstrated against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Addressing the presence of radical ultra-Orthodox ministers in Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, he explains that the coalition government comprises diverse voices, but in matters of foreign policy, only the president and foreign minister wield authority. He also mentions the «grave» and «radical» statements made by Spanish ministers.

Poraz believes that «Hamas cannot win battles on the battlefield,» but can achieve victories in the court of public opinion by spreading fake news, lies, and misinformation.

«THE BIGGEST FAILURE IN ISRAEL’S HISTORY»

Furthermore, Dan Poraz views the attacks of October 7, 2023, as «the biggest failure in Israel’s history,» attributing it to military, intelligence, and political shortcomings in understanding the threat posed by Hamas. «No one thought this could happen,» he asserts.

He notes that the entire military leadership and intelligence services have resigned due to this failure, although not the government, causing controversy as many believe Netanyahu’s government bears responsibility. He assures that an investigation will be conducted.

Additionally, he acknowledges that it was a mistake for Qatar to finance Hamas with Israeli permission.

Lastly, in response to journalists’ complaints about Israel’s refusal to allow reporters entry, Poraz justifies it by citing the combat zone nature of most of the Gaza Strip and the security reasons behind the decision.