Basque police, the Ertzaintza, descended on Loiu Airport with batons drawn. They attacked the activists and the friends and family who had gathered to welcome them home. Four people were arrested, charged with “desobediencia grave, resistencia y atentado a agente de la autoridad” — the standard playbook for criminalizing solidarity.
The images are shocking: police beating people who had just survived Israeli captivity. People being dragged and handcuffed as they step off a plane, bringing back evidence of Israeli war crimes.
The truth is, the Ertzaintza has a long-standing, multifaceted relationship with Israel that goes far beyond the Spanish government’s official positions on Palestine.
Let’s be clear about what we’re talking about:
Technology & Equipment: The Ertzaintza has purchased Israeli technology and equipment for years. Its phone-tapping system comes from Verint Systems, an Israeli company with deep ties to Israeli military intelligence. An Israeli firm, ICTS, has managed security at some of their facilities. They’ve used Israeli body armor, surveillance cameras, and listening devices.
Training & Services: The Ertzaintza has participated in training from Israeli sources, including courses from Guardian Defense & Homeland Security — a company run by a former Mossad agent that has provided “live fire” training to Spanish police.
Financial Ties: These aren’t minor transactions. Basque institutions have reportedly spent over €1.66 million on contracts with Israeli-linked security companies. In 2021 the Ertzaintza signed a contract for €3,569.50 just for “supply of stun and distraction grenade carriers” from these same Israeli sources.
As mentioned by others, Sanchez does not control the Basque police, not that the Spanish police will be behaving any different anyways.
The problem with the Police in the entire Iberia is the toxic Hollywoodized culture they get in once inside. For instance, I take that one police officer over reacted and the rest, instead of mitigating that erroneous stance, jumped to defend that officer without no questions. After seeing all videos published, this could have been prevented 100% by mere sensible policing.