Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, expects his country to recognize Palestinian statehood before July and is convinced that in the coming months there will be a series of events on the international stage that will make it easier for other countries to join the move.
Sánchez advanced his plans regarding the recognition of Palestine in an informal conversation with reporters covering his Middle East tour, which includes visits to Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In addition, in a meeting of colleagues from Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia, the other countries committed to the same recognition once "it can make a positive contribution and the circumstances are right."
This is not the first time that the Spanish leader has spoken of the importance of establishing a Palestinian state, but this time he put a time limit on the date he wants to get this done. This is a decision adopted by Spain's Council of Ministers, which does not need Parliament's approval, although Sánchez promised that he would inform the legislative authority.
Sánchez is convinced that between April and June there will be relevant events on the international stage with regards to the war in Gaza and advised other parties to remain attentive to discussions on the issue at the United Nations. He insisted that his intention is for a recognition to not take place in a vacuum, but by a group of countries "taking responsibility" and helping "resolve the conflict."
The Prime Minister explained that the purpose of his tour of the Middle East is to learn first hand what the Arab countries think about the war, what alternatives they intend to put in place, to and to what extent Spain can help.
Sánchez says there is a need for an immediate ceasefire to "end the humanitarian disaster in Gaza," intends to promote a peace conference that will facilitate a two-state solution, supports the Palestinian role of UNRWA, and demands the release of hostages held by Hamas.
