Spanish king on Jordan trip says conflict in Gaza must end

LONDON: King Felipe VI of Spain on Saturday called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza on the first day of his trip to Jordan.

In an address at the Spanish ambassador’s residence in Amman the monarch condemned the year-long conflict that has led to the humanitarian crisis in the enclave and lamented the suffering and destruction it has wrought, adding: “The conflict must end as soon as possible.”

He also emphasized the deep historical ties between Spain and Jordan, and highlighted the strong political, economic and cultural interests shared by the two countries.

The meeting with the Spanish community in Jordan was a platform for the king to express solidarity and a collective desire for peace amid ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East, he said.

“In these moments, we are also united by a deep desire for peace and dialogue,” King Felipe said. 

He called for a return to diplomatic efforts to resolve the Gaza crisis, advocating for the resumption of negotiations aimed at achieving a two-state solution.

“We want to see an end to the humanitarian drama and the silence of weapons, to return to the path of politics and diplomacy,” he said, underscoring the need for a solid and lasting peace for the Palestinians and Israelis.

King Felipe also expressed optimism about the increasing presence of Spanish companies in Jordan, which he said would play a vital role in promoting growth, prosperity and employment in the kingdom.

He voiced hopes for an upcoming business forum that would demonstrate this economic collaboration.

The king also recognized the contributions made by Spanish cooperation programs in Jordan, praising the efforts of staff working through NGOs and the Spanish embassy’s cooperation office.

“Their work is particularly important in light of the circumstances and challenges the Jordanian society is facing,” he said, referring to Jordan’s longstanding role as a host for refugees fleeing conflict.