Spain’s PM To Abbas: Gaza Devastation Is ‘Genocide’, Accountability Needed

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez intensified his criticism of the Gaza war during Mahmoud Abbas’ visit to Madrid on Wednesday, declaring that anyone responsible for the devastation there “must be held accountable.” His comments, quoted by Anadolu, framed justice as the only path toward lasting peace.

The meeting took place at La Moncloa Palace, where Sanchez welcomed the Palestinian Authority chairman on a day he said carried deep meaning: the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. He underscored that human dignity remains “an unconditional, unique and non-negotiable value.”

Calling 2025 “a terrible year for the Palestinian people,” Sanchez described the near-total destruction across the Strip, saying that nine out of ten homes have become uninhabitable and that “thousands of lives and families” have been shattered. He argued that the current ceasefire has provided little relief to civilians. “Even today, after the ceasefire (declaration), Palestinians in Gaza are still suffering attacks … We need real peace. Those responsible for this genocide must be held accountable,” he said.

Although Sanchez avoided naming Israel in his remarks, he has become one of Europe’s most vocal critics of Israeli policy. He has repeatedly accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, drawing sharp responses from Jerusalem and creating diplomatic strain.

The tension worsened in November 2023, when Israel summoned Spain’s Ambassador after Sanchez asserted that “Israel is violating international law and is carrying out indiscriminate killings in Gaza.” Months later, in April, he charged that Israel’s “disproportionate response” risked “destabilizing the Middle East, and as a consequence, the entire world.”

During Abbas’ visit, Sanchez outlined Spain’s ongoing approach to the conflict, calling for sustained public attention to the Palestinian plight, backing the Palestinian Authority as it attempts to structure governance, and coordinating with European, Arab, and global partners to create security conditions that could “end violence once and for all.”

He closed the meeting with a message of solidarity, declaring that “Spain and Palestine will always walk hand in hand,” and expressing hope that Abbas’ time in Madrid would reinforce dialogue, elevate diplomatic solutions within the framework of international law, and broaden cooperation between the two sides.

Spain, along with Norway and Ireland, formally recognized the “State of Palestine” in May 2024, cementing its role as one of the most vocal European advocates for Palestinian statehood.

{Matzav.com}