MADRID: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas on Thursday called for de-escalation of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, as Lebanon said at least 37 people had now been killed and over 3,500 injured by communication device explosions.
During a joint news conference in Madrid, Sanchez expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, particularly in Lebanon, stating, “Today the risk of escalation is once more increasing in a dangerous way.” He urged for restraint and peaceful coexistence among nations.
The Prime Minister’s remarks followed more than an hour of talks with Palestinian President Abbas, marking the Palestinian leader’s first visit to Spain since the country officially recognized the state of Palestine on May 28.
Sanchez emphasized the importance of a two-state solution, asserting that a Palestinian nation “living side by side with the state of Israel” is essential for stability in the region.
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati has called on the United Nations to intervene in what he described as Israel’s “technological war” against Lebanon.
Lebanon’s Health Minister Firass Abiad confirmed that the explosions, which occurred in various public settings, have claimed 37 lives and left thousands injured. He stated, “The international community and Europe cannot remain impassive in the face of the suffering of thousands of innocents, largely women and children.”
Sanchez referenced the Israeli offensive in Gaza, which has killed at least 41,272 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to data from the territory’s health ministry. The UN has recognized these figures as credible.
During the press conference, Abbas expressed gratitude for Sanchez’s support and Spain’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, urging other nations yet to do so to follow suit. The Palestinian leader emphasized the right of Palestine to exist as a sovereign state.
