Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
In a state visit marked by diplomacy and shared concern over the escalating crisis in the Middle East, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Spanish King Felipe VI issued a joint call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and detainees, and unrestricted humanitarian access to the war-torn enclave. The leaders also firmly rejected any attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian population, warning of regional and international consequences.
The statements were made during King Felipe and Queen Letizia’s official visit to Cairo, their first state visit to Egypt hosted by President El-Sisi and First Lady Intissar El-Sisi at the Ittihadiya Presidential Palace on Wednesday.
“Support for Peace Is Support for Justice”
During a formal luncheon honoring the Spanish monarchs, President El-Sisi praised Spain’s consistent and principled stance in support of a comprehensive and just peace in the Middle East. He highlighted Spain’s recognition of the State of Palestine and its vote in favor of the “New York Declaration on the Two-State Solution” at the United Nations General Assembly.
“This position reflects your country’s commitment to the principles of morality, justice, and international legitimacy,” said El-Sisi. “It is a stance we deeply appreciate, both officially and popularly. We hope this support continues, and that we can work together toward achieving a just and lasting peace for the peoples of the region.”
President El-Sisi concluded his remarks by thanking the Spanish monarchs warmly:
“Once again, I extend my sincere gratitude to His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen of Spain. I hold you in the highest esteem and wish you a successful and enjoyable visit in Egypt—your second home.”
Common Ground on Gaza and Regional Stability
According to a statement from Presidential Spokesman Mohamed El-Shennawy, the discussions between the two delegations covered a wide array of bilateral topics, including strengthening cooperation in trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchange. However, the focus inevitably turned to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and broader regional instability.
President El-Sisi briefed King Felipe on Egypt’s mediation efforts, including its push for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the reconstruction of Gaza, an initiative spearheaded by Cairo and backed by both Arab and Islamic countries. The Spanish king praised Egypt’s role, noting its consistent efforts over the past two years to mediate peace and prevent regional escalation.
The two leaders emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate the conflict in Gaza, which has continued unabated since Israel launched its military campaign in October 2023 following a deadly Hamas attack. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, the war has killed approximately 64,000 Palestinians and injured more than 163,000. Israel, in turn, reported 1,200 fatalities and 251 hostages as a result of the Hamas assault.
Both El-Sisi and King Felipe voiced unequivocal opposition to forced displacement of Palestinians—warning that any such move would constitute an effective liquidation of the Palestinian cause, violate international law, and pose a threat to neighboring states. They also cautioned that mass displacement could trigger an unprecedented wave of illegal migration toward Europe, straining the continent’s already fragile migration systems.
Rejecting Israeli Settlement Policies
The Egyptian and Spanish leaders also issued a strong joint condemnation of ongoing Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank and any proposals to annex Palestinian territory, labeling these actions as flagrant violations of international law.
“There must be a stop to illegal practices that undermine any chance of peace,” President El-Sisi said, echoing global concern over Israeli policies that many see as eroding the feasibility of a two-state solution.
Regional Escalation and Broader War Risks
As the war in Gaza rages on, Israel has expanded its military operations beyond the Strip. In recent months, it has launched repeated airstrikes in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and even Qatar alongside a 12-day war with Iran earlier this year. The widening scope of Israel’s military campaign has raised fears of a broader regional war.
Despite these risks, diplomatic channels remain active. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently toured the region, including stops in Israel and Qatar, warned Hamas that it has only “a very short window” measured in days or weeks to accept a ceasefire agreement, urging the group to lay down arms in exchange for an end to hostilities.
A Shared Vision for Peace
In their Cairo meeting, El-Sisi and King Felipe reiterated their commitment to international diplomacy and peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Both affirmed that the path forward must include recognition of the Palestinians’ legitimate right to statehood, based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital.
As the visit concluded, the tone was one of solemn determination to prevent further regional collapse. President El-Sisi’s closing words underscored the shared stakes: “We must work hand-in-hand to uphold peace, justice, and humanity not just for Palestine, but for the future stability of our region and the world.”
