As he moves through Lebanon, Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares, offers words of appreciation for Lebanon as a “friendly partner.” He stresses that Lebanon plays a pivotal role in regional stability and in preventing a spiral of violence, speaking after meetings with the acting prime minister and other officials in Beirut. The minister emphasizes Spain’s commitment to an immediate and permanent ceasefire and to advancing a peace conference based on a two-state framework, including recognition of a viable Palestinian state.
Lebanon is described as a key partner for peace, a nation willing to welcome Palestinian and Syrian refugees and to uphold peaceful coexistence among different religions. This marks Albares’ first trip to the region since the Gaza war intensified in early October. He plans further departures after meetings with aid workers and military commanders. The conversations also touch on Iraq, with Albares noting that his initial tour did not include Israel or Palestine, as their agendas diverge from those of certain counterparts. He highlights a broader mission: to convey support to Lebanon and Iraq, where Spanish troops are stationed, and to reinforce solidarity with regional partners.
Security concerns are noted as a constraint on continuing plans, including the possibility of visiting Miguel de Cervantes’ base in southern Lebanon where roughly six hundred Spanish personnel are stationed. Since the October 7 attacks, clashes between the Israeli army and Hizbollah-affiliated militias have claimed hundreds of lives, creating a volatile security environment. Albares reiterates concern about the Lebanon crisis and reiterates backing for the United Nations mission in the country. He underscores that Spain’s military presence contributes to reducing regional tensions and supports the peace process advanced by European Union actors, including the High Representative Josep Borrell, who describe Lebanon as a central partner in regional diplomacy. The goal is to manage violence in a region that remains fragile and destabilized.
“Israel is a friendly country”
Albares asserts that Spain aims to prevent a repetition of the Gaza tragedy and to secure a future of peace and prosperity for all people in the area. He expresses a willingness to visit Israel, noting that the country’s leadership has spoken with him and that Spain seeks constructive engagement. The minister emphasizes that the crisis has caused immense suffering, including a high daily toll among civilians, and he advocates for humanitarian access and a meaningful peace conference. The objective remains the establishment and recognition of a viable Palestinian state, with Gaza and the West Bank under a common framework and jurisdiction, free of unilateral impediments to aid and development. The tone is pragmatic: humanitarian corridors and a negotiated settlement must be the path to stability.
According to Albares, building durable peace in the Middle East requires strong regional cooperation and a consistent international presence. He notes Spain’s commitment to supporting aid flows and reconstruction while pressing for a political process that leads to a two-state solution. In the context of Lebanon, Spain intends to deepen cooperation through new development plans and a refreshed Cooperation Master Plan aimed at advancing projects in 2024. When it is not possible to visit Spanish troops at the UN-based base, military leaders will travel to Beirut to discuss ongoing efforts and the impact of Spanish forces, which contribute to UNIFIL’s mission. Roughly six hundred soldiers serve under UNIFIL, a mission created in 1978 amid Lebanon’s civil conflict, with a mandate to stabilize the area and protect civilians while supporting the authority of the Lebanese state.
Throughout the discussions, Albares emphasizes that the region’s security hinges on a balance of diplomacy, humanitarian access, and robust peace plans. He highlights that Lebanon’s cooperation remains crucial to regional stability and that Spain intends to be an active partner in the peace process, supporting UN efforts and EU diplomacy. The visit reflects a broader strategy to engage with Lebanon, Iraq, and Israel in a manner that reduces tensions, strengthens humanitarian relief, and advances a political settlement that can withstand the pressures of ongoing conflict and displacement. The overarching message is clear: regional peace is achievable through sustained dialogue, coordinated international support, and a firm commitment to a just and lasting settlement for all people in the area.