Spain's Foreign Minister Celebrates Ceasefire in Gaza, Calls for Ongoing Peace Efforts
Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, has expressed optimism regarding the newly agreed ceasefire in Gaza between Hamas and Israel, a development he welcomed during an official trip to Lebanon where he met with the newly elected President. Albares stated that the ceasefire, a demand of the Spanish government for several months, marks a positive step forward for peace in a region long marred by conflict.
From Beirut, Albares emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid for the Palestinian people, revealing that Spain is prepared to dispatch a package of 24 million euros to Gaza, which could potentially increase to 50 million euros to address the urgent needs of the local population.
In a press briefing attended by various media outlets, including El HuffPost, Albares underscored the need for the ceasefire to not just be a temporary halt but a lasting resolution to the conflict. "There must be a peaceful future for both Palestine and Israel, and Spain is willing to support them," he asserted, highlighting Spain's ongoing commitment to facilitating peace in the region.
Acknowledging the months of effort from mediators leading to this agreement, he expressed gratitude and congratulated all parties involved in the negotiation process. Albares stressed that the staggering death toll, with over 45,000 Palestinians and over 2,000 Israelis lost, should underscore the urgency of achieving sustainable peace.
Today, Albares has been in constant communication with the Spanish Government, Secretary of State, and the director of the cooperation agency to coordinate the humanitarian aid efforts effectively. He shared his disappointment that European aid had not arrived sooner but remained hopeful about the current operations.
"Spain will not spare any effort to enable peace and ensure it endures. We have a ceasefire that will last for a while, and that is the time we have," he concluded, urging the Palestinian authority to assume control over all territories to foster a sustainable solution moving forward.
As the region looks forward to the prospects of peace, calls for continued support and action are paramount as leaders work together towards a peaceful coexistence.
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