Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has welcomed the announcement of a two-week ceasefire in Iran but sharply criticized the United States and Israel, saying they do not deserve praise for the temporary halt in fighting.
“Ceasefires are always good news. Especially if they lead to a just and lasting peace,” Sánchez wrote on social media. However, he warned that the agreement should not overshadow the devastation caused by the conflict.
In a pointed rebuke, he added: “The government of Spain will not applaud those who set the world on fire just because they show up with a bucket.”
Sánchez emphasized that diplomacy must now take precedence, concluding his statement with a clear call to action: “What’s needed now: diplomacy, international legality, and PEACE.”
Spain has opposed the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran since its inception, previously describing it as a “cruel, absurd, and illegal” assault. The Spanish government also restricted access to its military bases and airspace for operations linked to the conflict.
Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares reiterated support for diplomatic mediation, including efforts led by Pakistan, stressing that negotiations remain the only path forward.
“Diplomacy, negotiation, and international law are the only path to the lasting peace that the citizens of the Middle East deserve,” Albares said, urging all parties to de-escalate tensions.
He also called for the ceasefire to extend to Lebanon, where ongoing violence has displaced millions and caused significant casualties. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the ceasefire agreement “does not include Lebanon.”
As global leaders react, Spain has pledged to support continued diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a broader and lasting peace in the region.
