Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced on Saturday his intention to propose that Spain's parliament formally recognizes a Palestinian state. Sánchez stated that his decision is driven by moral conviction, advocating for a just cause and emphasizing the necessity for both Israel and Palestine to coexist peacefully.
Sánchez's proposal aligns with a growing sentiment among European leaders supporting a two-state solution in the Middle East. French President Emmanuel Macron recently expressed openness to recognizing a Palestinian state, while British Foreign Minister David Cameron hinted at potential recognition post a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Comparing Spain's stance on the Gaza conflict to its support for Ukraine during Russia's invasion, Sánchez emphasized the importance of upholding international law and advocating for an end to violence, the acknowledgment of two states, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
His remarks were made during a human rights conference in Bilbao, coinciding with aid shipments en route to Gaza amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis and a renewed international effort to bypass Israeli restrictions.
Following an attack by Hamas militants on Israel in October that resulted in casualties and hostages, Israel has conducted military operations in Gaza, resulting in significant Palestinian casualties according to the Gaza Health Ministry.