(MENAFN) Spain has bans two senior Israeli ministers from entering the country, a move described as a response to sanctions recently imposed by Israel on Spanish officials, according to reports.

Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares announced after a cabinet meeting that National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich were added to Spain’s sanctions list. He explained the decision was made because both figures are directly tied to Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza.

The development follows Israel’s decision to sanction Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz and Minister of Youth and Children Sira Rego. As a result, both Spanish politicians are prohibited from entering Israel, and Israeli authorities said official contacts with them have been suspended.

Albares emphasized that Madrid’s step represents a “reciprocal response” to Israeli measures and underlines Spain’s continued opposition to the military campaign in Gaza.

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