Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has called on Israel to immediately end its war in Gaza and uphold international humanitarian law, marking one of the strongest condemnations from a European Union member state amid growing international outrage over civilian casualties in the besieged Palestinian territory.
Speaking at a press conference in Madrid on Saturday, Albares urged Israel to cease its military operations, which he said have resulted in an “unacceptable loss of civilian life,” particularly among children and women. He emphasized that while Israel has a right to security, it must “respect international law and avoid collective punishment.”
“The situation in Gaza is catastrophic,” Albares stated. “Spain cannot remain silent in the face of daily images of bombed hospitals, destroyed schools, and grieving families. We demand an immediate ceasefire.”
The comments come amid escalating calls across Europe for stronger diplomatic pressure on Tel Aviv. Spain has emerged as a vocal critic of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has killed thousands of Palestinians, displaced hundreds of thousands more, and devastated critical infrastructure under the continued blockade.
Albares also voiced support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its investigation into possible war crimes committed in Gaza, calling accountability “essential” to ensuring lasting peace and justice.
Israel has sharply criticized the ICC probe and Spain’s position, accusing Madrid of bias and failing to recognize the threat posed by Hamas rocket attacks. The Israeli Foreign Ministry summoned the Spanish ambassador for a formal protest, accusing Albares of “undermining Israel’s right to self-defense.”
Despite the diplomatic friction, Spain remains steadfast. Albares emphasized that Madrid is not acting alone but is echoing the sentiment of millions across Europe who are demanding an end to the bloodshed. He also confirmed that Spain would push for a coordinated EU response, including possible arms embargoes and trade reviews related to Israel.
Spanish civil society has also been highly mobilized. Massive pro-Palestinian protests have swept cities like Madrid and Barcelona, with demonstrators demanding the Spanish government take a firmer stance against Israel and support sanctions.
Albares concluded his remarks by reaffirming Spain’s support for a two-state solution, stating that peace cannot be achieved through military force. “There must be a political solution that guarantees the security of Israelis and the dignity and freedom of Palestinians,” he said.
With pressure building both at home and within European institutions, Spain is expected to continue advocating for stronger measures at upcoming EU summits and UN forums—potentially deepening the rift between Israel and parts of the international community that now view the Gaza campaign as both excessive and unlawful.
Source: Press TV
