Madrid: Spain's prime minister stated that those responsible for the devastation in Gaza "must be held accountable," emphasizing that genuine peace requires justice. This declaration was made during an official visit by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to Madrid.
According to Anadolu Agency, Sanchez made these remarks at La Moncloa Palace on Human Rights Day. He highlighted the symbolic nature of the occasion, noting the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and emphasizing that human dignity remains "an unconditional, unique and non-negotiable value."
Sanchez described 2025 as a devastating year for the Palestinian people, with nine out of ten homes in Gaza rendered uninhabitable and numerous lives and families shattered. He cited UN estimates indicating more than 50 million tons of rubble across the enclave, suggesting that while physical reconstruction is possible, the greater challenge lies in "how to rebuild hope" and ensure lasting peace, beyond being just "a brief parenthesis between wars."
Despite the ceasefire, Sanchez warned that the suffering of civilians continues. "Even today, after the ceasefire (declaration), Palestinians in Gaza are still suffering attacks . We need real peace. Those responsible for this genocide must be held accountable," he asserted.
Sanchez reiterated Spain's commitment to a two-state solution and outlined three priorities: keeping the Palestinian crisis in public consciousness, supporting the Palestinian Authority in shaping future governance, and coordinating with European, Arab, and international partners to establish security conditions that can "end violence once and for all." He mentioned that the Spanish public has been "genuinely moved" by the devastation in Gaza and strongly supports the recognition of the state of Palestine.
In conclusion, Sanchez stated that Spain and Palestine "will always walk hand in hand," expressing hope that Abbas' visit would aid in building bridges, seeking solutions within the framework of international law, and strengthening ties between the countries.
Abbas expressed gratitude to Spain for recognizing a Palestinian state and its role in forming an international coalition aimed at expanding recognition and advancing a two-state solution. He reaffirmed commitment to the two-state solution based on UN resolutions and international law, advocating for an independent, sovereign Palestinian state, based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Earlier in the day, Abbas met with Spain's King Felipe VI in Madrid, where they discussed the latest political and on-the-ground developments in Palestinian territories. Abbas reviewed ways to develop bilateral relations with King Felipe VI, as well as the latest Palestinian developments.