In recent years, Spain has engaged in discussions over recognizing the State of Palestine amid a broader push for a progressive foreign policy. The topic has repeatedly surfaced in public discourse and diplomatic channels, reflecting a long-standing relationship between Spain and the Palestinian people that spans decades.
Ambassador Hosni Abdel Wahid, newly assigned to Madrid as the head of the Palestinian diplomatic mission, presented the possibility of recognition during ceremonies tied to his accreditation. The ambassador indicated that such recognition would signal Spain’s commitment to a forward-looking foreign policy that supports Palestinian statehood in a manner consistent with international law and regional stability.
Asked about meetings with the Spanish government, particularly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abdel Wahid noted that several discussions had taken place with government officials, civil society representatives, and political parties. He asserted that momentum was building and that concrete steps could follow political calculations at the highest levels.
When queried about the emotional tone of those talks, the ambassador described the reception as positive. He highlighted the strength of the historical ties between Spain and Palestine and suggested that goodwill existed on both sides, pointing to a shared interest in a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Regarding the timeline for potential recognition, Abdel Wahid argued that timing matters and depends on political calculations. He emphasized that formal recognition is still pending, but noted that practical recognition already exists in some forms, such as the ambassador’s presence and the credibility accorded at ceremonial moments. He implied that the final step could be taken when the political context is right.
Asked about whether shifting political dynamics, including a forthcoming election, might influence the decision, the ambassador stated that Spain’s role as a regional influencer could be strengthened by recognizing Palestine. He suggested that political processes should not delay what he viewed as the right outcome, and urged continued engagement with both political and civil actors to advance the relationship.
On the matter of regional issues like Western Sahara, the ambassador reiterated that he speaks for the Palestinian people and cannot comment on the foreign policy choices of other states. He warned against reading any changes in Spain’s stance as regression, and he expressed hope that Spain would further upgrade its diplomatic ties with Palestine, in line with a principled foreign policy.
In response to questions about recent international events, Abdel Wahid affirmed that there was a need for consistent language and a refusal to apply double standards. He described the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a test for global norms on human rights and the rule of law and urged the international community to uphold these standards without bias.
On broader regional normalization, he acknowledged that some Arab states have moved to normalize relations with Israel. He argued that such steps do not automatically bring peace to the Middle East and that genuine progress requires addressing the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people in a just manner.
When the discussion turned to the two-state solution, the ambassador acknowledged the challenges facing the process. He observed that while some Israeli lawmakers advocate alternative paths, the Palestinian leadership continues to advocate for a two-state framework that guarantees equal rights and self-determination for Palestinians. He attributed setbacks to international inaction and to unilateral moves that complicate negotiations rather than to Palestinian intransigence.
In reflecting on the consequences of shifting U.S. policy, Abdel Wahid criticized the relocation of symbols of statehood as a legal and political maneuver. He argued that multilateral frameworks and international agreements must guide such decisions, warning that inconsistent practice undermines the rule of law and harms the prospect of lasting peace.
Looking ahead, the Palestinian representative expressed a cautious optimism. He anticipated that American diplomacy might eventually translate into tangible steps on the ground, provided there is sustained engagement and a clear commitment to accountability and fairness. He also highlighted the broader historical context, noting decades of occupation, displacement, and unmet resolutions, and called for renewed international resolve to address these enduring grievances.
Across the conversation, the ambassador stressed that the Palestinian people seek self-determination within an independent and sovereign state. He urged the international community, including key Western partners, to recognize this right and to support a balanced and principled approach to Middle East peace that benefits all parties involved.
In sum, the dialogue underscored a shared desire for progress within a framework that respects international law, human rights, and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people while recognizing the complexities of regional politics and the responsibilities of global actors.