Spain’s Foreign Minister Urges End to Israel-Palestine Violence, Highlights Risk of Spillover
Spain’s acting Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, has called for an immediate halt to the escalating violence between Israel and Palestine. In an interview with state broadcaster RTVE, Albares expressed concern over the recent exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israel, emphasizing the risk of the conflict spilling over into other countries.
Albares revealed that he has been in contact with foreign ministers from Jordan, Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia, all of whom share the view that it is crucial to contain the conflict and put an end to the violence.
While acknowledging Israel’s right to defend itself, Albares stressed the need for all states to adhere to international and humanitarian law when exercising this right. Spain consistently highlights the importance of upholding these principles in any conflict.
The Spanish foreign minister also spoke with his Palestinian counterpart, Riyad al-Maliki, emphasizing the urgency of halting the current level of violence. Albares and al-Maliki both expressed concern about the conflict expanding into other regions such as the West Bank or Lebanon.
Albares further called upon Hamas to cease its attacks and release the estimated 150 captives, stating that the attack on Israel constituted an act of terrorism.
Regarding Spanish citizens in Israel, Albares noted that there were several individuals present over the weekend. While air traffic faced some interruptions, flights between Spain and Israel have since returned to normal.
Israel’s Ambassador to Spain, Rodica Radian-Gordon, has confirmed that it remains unclear how many captives have been taken into the Gaza Strip.
The recent escalation in violence began with the launch of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood by Hamas, which involved firing a barrage of rockets at Israel. Hamas claimed this action was a response to the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem and increased settler violence.
In retaliation, the Israeli army initiated Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Tragically, this has resulted in the death of at least 493 Palestinians and the injury of 2,751 others. Israeli media and the Health Ministry report that over 800 Israelis have been killed and more than 2,300 wounded as well.
The situation in Israel and Palestine remains highly volatile, with the international community deeply concerned about the escalating violence. Efforts, such as those made by Spain’s Foreign Minister, are being undertaken to urge all parties involved to deescalate the conflict and pursue a peaceful resolution.
