Spain vows to push for Palestinian State, urges EU to defend multilateralism

By Alyssa McMurtry

OVIEDO, Spain (AA) - Spain “will do everything possible for the Palestinian state to exist,” Spain’s foreign minister said Monday, emphasizing that a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Speaking at a conference hosted by Spanish media outlet Europa Press, Jose Manuel Albares stressed that Palestinian statehood is not only a right for the Palestinian people but also “the best guarantee for Israeli security.”

Spain’s top diplomat also announced that Spain is working on a diplomatic and exterior policy revamp and aims to increase its presence in the Middle East.

“Foreign policy is adapting to a new world. And we need to move from stagnation and conformity to being proactive,” he said.

Albares described Spain’s policy as “clear” and “coherent,” adding that the country advocates for international law, the United Nations and multilateralism, no matter the circumstance.

He urged Europe to do the same.

“The so-called Global South is looking at Europe closer than ever and they will judge us on how we act,” Albares added.

The Spanish foreign minister reaffirmed Spain’s unwavering support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), calling it “absolutely indispensable for the survival of six million Palestinian refugees.”

“If the EU continues supporting UNRWA, it’s in a good part, thanks to Spain,” he added.

Albares said he “categorically rejects” the Israeli law blocking the agency’s operations.

He also slammed US President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate residents of the Gaza Strip to other nations like Jordan and Egypt.

“Gaza belongs to the Gazans… And Gaza is part of the future Palestinian state,” he said. ​​​​​​​

Spain officially recognized Palestinian statehood in May 2024 alongside other EU nations like Ireland and Norway.