On May 7, 2023, Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Palestinian territories, was awarded the Order of Civil Merit by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez at Moncloa Palace in Madrid. This honor recognizes her extensive work documenting human rights violations in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, which she claims violate international law. Albanese has been particularly vocal in her criticism of Israel's actions following the October 2023 conflict with Hamas militants, calling for investigations into potential war crimes. The Spanish government has emphasized its support for Albanese, warning against US sanctions that could undermine international justice efforts. This recognition has intensified diplomatic tensions between Spain, the US, and Israel, as Spain emerges as a prominent voice opposing Israel's actions in Gaza. Albanese's recent activities included meetings with high-ranking Spanish officials and a visit to the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid, where she drew parallels between Picasso's painting Guernica and the destruction in Gaza, further amplifying her advocacy for humanitarian issues.