Sánchez and Abbas Meet Amidst Rising Tensions in Gaza: A Call for Real Ceasefire and Support

In a poignant display of solidarity, the President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Palace of Moncloa on Wednesday. Their meeting comes during what both leaders describe as an unprecedentedly challenging year for the Palestinian people. "2025 has been terrible for the Palestinian people, not only due to physical devastation but also because nine out of ten houses in the Gaza Strip are uninhabitable," Sánchez stated, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis the region is currently facing. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continue walking together, emphasizing the crucial need for a genuine ceasefire agreement. Sánchez stressed the importance of ensuring that any ceasefire is not merely a facade, reflecting the urgency of the situation that has escalated in recent months. This meeting follows the previous announcement of a ceasefire, which has largely been perceived as ineffective amidst continued violence. As Gaza grapples with the impending winter storm Byron, a significant risk of flooding threatens the lives of approximately 850,000 displaced individuals who are currently living in precarious conditions, according to the latest United Nations OCHA report. The humanitarian situation remains critical, with relentless control exerted by Israel over Gaza’s borders, preventing essential aid and basic necessities from reaching those in need. On the day of the meeting, reports emerged of further violence, including the tragic deaths of three individuals, including a child. The ongoing conflict has led to immense loss of life, with over 70,000 fatalities reported over the past two years. In the face of such devastation, Sánchez underscored the necessity of holding those responsible for what he termed a genocide accountable. "The victims deserve justice and a semblance of peace," he asserted, pledging Spain's support to the Palestinian National Authority in its efforts to rebuild Gaza. In contrast, President Abbas called for the full implementation of the peace framework initiated by former President Donald Trump, alongside an urgent plea for international assistance to quell the violence escalating in the West Bank. This territory, partially under the control of the Palestinian Authority, remains a focal point of contention amid the ongoing hostilities with Hamas, which governs a significant portion of Gaza. Additionally, Abbas urged the Israeli government to release withheld Palestinian tax revenue, describing it as a tactic of pressure exerted on the Palestinian Authority. With Israel managing these funds, Abbas has emphasized the critical need for their release to support the embattled Palestinian people. Expressing gratitude for Spain's humanitarian support, Abbas recognized the brave stance taken by Sánchez and the Spanish government, affirming the need for international solidarity during these tumultuous times. The meeting between Sánchez and Abbas serves as a reminder of the pressing humanitarian crisis facing Gaza and the larger implications of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which continues to unfold amid international attention and scrutiny. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2