Spain urges Middle East de-escalation, warns ‘democracy not built with bombs’

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares called Wednesday for an immediate de-escalation in the Middle East, warning that security cannot be imposed through military force and urging a return to diplomatic engagement. “At this point in the 21st century, we know that seeking security and drawing borders by force leads to chaos. Democracy and stability are not built with bombs,” Albares wrote on the social media platform X, adding that “cooperation is always more powerful than confrontation.”

Lebanon’s sovereignty under threat

Albares expressed concern over Lebanon’s territorial integrity, saying the country’s sovereignty is being violated and its population displaced. He called on both Hezbollah and Israel to cease hostilities, comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and respect the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Iran accused of fueling instability

Addressing broader regional tensions, the Spanish minister accused Iran of “attacking its neighbors without justification,” stating that Tehran is contributing to instability across the region. He also stressed that the Palestinian issue must remain central to any diplomatic effort, warning it “cannot be forgotten.”

Two-state solution essential for peace

Reaffirming Spain’s support for a two-state solution, Albares said “regional peace can only come from mutual recognition” between Israel and Palestine. He emphasized that Madrid’s foreign policy prioritizes de-escalation and dialogue, maintaining that negotiations—including over Iran’s nuclear program—remain the only viable path to resolving regional disputes.