Last week, similar comments by Sanchez and his Belgian counterpart Alexander de Croo in the Egyptian-controlled Rafah crossing angered Israel, whose Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said the remarks repeated “false claims” and “gave terrorism a boost.” Cohen then said he summoned the ambassadors of both countries.

“The footage we are seeing and the growing numbers of children dying, I have serious doubt [Israel] is complying with international humanitarian law,” Sanchez said in an interview with Spanish state-owned broadcaster TVE.

“What we are seeing in Gaza is not acceptable,” he added.

Despite the diplomatic spat, Sanchez, who is pushing for a peace conference, said the relationship between Israel and Spain was “correct” and “friendly countries also have to say things to each other.”

He insisted that European countries discuss the recognition of a Palestinian state.