How do readers evaluate Spain’s decision to join the open pursuit at the International Court of Justice against Israel for genocide?
Since the onset of the latest events on October 7, Spain has held a highly objective stance and acted in line with its values and principles, setting itself apart from others. Those who claim to respect international law, multilateral organizations, and human rights must act in accordance with what they profess to respect. Countries should join the effort initiated by South Africa to advance justice.
Beyond the government’s recognition of the State of Palestine, does the Spanish public show the same level of backing?
Recently, the Real Instituto Elcano published a study indicating that 78 percent of Spaniards support recognizing the State of Palestine. The finding crosses political and ideological lines, with broad consensus among Spaniards on this issue. There is hope that others will follow the path Spain has set, demonstrating initiative, effective governance, and leadership on the world stage. [Source: Elcano Institute, public opinion data, reflection on policy alignment with international norms.]
Are you convinced of that?
There is a confidence that other nations will follow suit. Some are weighing their timing. Everyone understands that each country operates under its own dynamics. The expectation is for all to act in accordance with international law and UN resolutions. The aim is not to engage in disparagement, coercion, or insults.
Are you referring to Israel?
Israel has used disqualification, coercion, and insults as tools for decades. In the end, many things have not gone the way of those applying such tactics. Fortunately, today some countries maintain dignity, refusing coercive pressure and acting within their duties and national dignity. Accusations of anti-Semitism have become repetitive to the point of losing their impact.
Do you mind that this issue has been used as an electoral argument in the European elections campaign?
It is a topic of broad consensus; human rights are not owned by any single political faction. Those who claim a portion of politics weaponized this issue can neutralize it by joining together. The matter would lose its leverage quite simply.
What happens when you see young Spaniards and youths from other countries mobilizing in universities in support of the Palestinian cause?
It is no secret that recent years have carried a narrative of a disengaged, self-absorbed youth. This is a defense of a generation committed to humanity, the future, and self-respect. The concern is not simply about Palestine or Israel; it is a stand for values. Young people are the engine of change, as they always have been, and they will continue to steer the world toward a better future for themselves and their children.
Does the information reaching Spain reflect the reality of the situation these months?
No one wishes suffering upon any people. While genocide is broadcast live, the scale of events on the ground is much larger. In Gaza, networks are scarce, and when friends on the ground share what is seen on social media and television, it often represents less than half of the truth. Hunger, a lack of medicines and hospitals, destruction of schools and essential infrastructure, and the absence of potable water and electricity are the reality. The responsibility is attributed to the United States, which is seen as shielding the Israeli state accused of genocide. The renowned writer Gabriel García Márquez once said that reality can outpace fiction, and this is being borne out in these days of reporting. [Citation: humanitarian crisis coverage, observer accounts.]
Pointing to the United States as responsible, what role is it playing in this situation?
About five months ago, President Biden appeared beside Macron to promise a quick solution, then spoke of a ceasefire. Now a plan purportedly backed by Israel has been denied by Israeli authorities themselves. Who should be believed? The government partners in Israel indicate that implementing the plan would topple the government. The United States is viewed as complicit and an active participant in the crisis, with calls to halt arms sales that fuel civilian casualties being echoed by allies like Germany and the United Kingdom. [Attribution: analysis of policy alignment with allied governments.]
Is there a path to a resolution?
The most urgent aim is an immediate, verifiable ceasefire. The focus must shift to stopping killings, ending collective punishment, and ensuring humanitarian aid can flow. Thereafter, a political settlement is essential. The occupation and colonial dynamics at play in Israel require recognition of Palestinian rights and the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state that shares in the dignity, hope, and justice afforded to all humanity.
With gatherings like the one held at Casa Mediterráneo, could Alicante be a partner in supporting the Palestinian people?
Historically, Alicante and the two banks of the Mediterranean share a common bond: people first. The path forward is the construction of bridges between communities. Ignorance and fear fed by unfamiliarity give way when people truly know each other. The city’s involvement in this spirit is a hopeful sign for the future of humanity.
The far-right has revived a scare about immigration, especially from Arab countries, in the current electoral campaign…
I will not align with any political faction. If those who support such policies allocated just 1 percent of NATO countries to address poverty, wars, and illegal migration, the world would change. Most European nations experienced colonial dominance at some point. The present suffering faced by African, Asian, and Latin American nations is, in part, a legacy of those policies.