In a significant move, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced on Saturday his intention to present a proposal in Spain’s parliament, seeking the official recognition of a Palestinian state. Sánchez asserted that his motivation is rooted in moral conviction, advocating for justice and emphasizing that recognizing both Israel and Palestine is essential for coexistence in peace.
Sánchez’s declaration aligns with a growing chorus of European leaders expressing support for a two-state solution amidst mounting international concerns over Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories. French President Emmanuel Macron signaled last month that France might recognize a Palestinian state, while UK Foreign Minister David Cameron suggested a similar possibility contingent on a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Addressing the situation in the Gaza Strip, Sánchez drew parallels to Spain’s support for Ukraine in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion, emphasizing the importance of respecting international law and calling for an end to violence, recognition of two states, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
These remarks were delivered at a human rights conference in Bilbao, coinciding with the dispatch of aid shipments to Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The comments also come five months after an attack by Hamas militants on Israel in October, leading to heightened tensions and a substantial loss of life in the conflict, with Israel’s military reportedly causing casualties among Palestinians.
Sánchez’s proposal adds Spain’s voice to the international discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reflecting a shifting global sentiment and a willingness to challenge the status quo for the sake of a lasting and just resolution in the region.
