Spain hosts meeting on Israel

On Friday, ministers from Muslim and European nations convened in Madrid to discuss advancing a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasized the need for the international community to take decisive steps towards achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. The meeting included key figures such as Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and foreign ministers from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, alongside representatives from the European Union. Jose Manuel Albares, Spain's top diplomat, reiterated that the two-state solution is essential for ensuring peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine. The gathering comes amid heightened calls for a resolution following the recent escalation of violence in Gaza, which has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The EU's foreign affairs chief, Josep Borrell, acknowledged differing views among EU nations regarding the recognition of Palestine but stressed a unified commitment to supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized Borrell's participation, accusing him of supporting a Palestinian state aligned with Iran. Borrell responded by rejecting the notion that disagreement with a government’s stance equates to anti-Semitism, highlighting the historical weight of such accusations. The ongoing conflict, which escalated after Hamas's attack on October 7, has intensified discussions around the two-state solution as a viable path to peace. Sanchez has been vocal in his criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza and has taken steps to formally recognize a Palestinian state. He announced plans for a bilateral summit with Palestine, aiming to establish collaboration agreements between the two states before the year's end.