Spanish FM welcomes Middle East ceasefire but urges caution

Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, has welcomed the recently announced ceasefire in the Middle East, while warning that it is too early to declare a definitive end to the conflict.

Speaking in an interview with Radio Nacional de España (RNE), Albares said the truce had helped prevent a dangerous escalation in violence.

He emphasised that the ceasefire had averted “the risk of violence and an unacceptable escalation, the likes of which humanity has not seen since the Second World War”.

Albares reiterated Spain’s readiness to contribute to diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilising the region and expressed support for Pakistan’s involvement in negotiations.

“For me, there are three fundamental things over these two weeks. All of us together – and first and foremost the parties to the conflict, but also the international community – must ensure an end to the bombing of Iran and the unjustified launching of missiles and drones from Iran across the Middle East. All fronts must be closed,” the minister emphasised.

He also stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to international shipping, highlighting its critical role in global energy and trade flows.

Albares described the moment as a “day of hope”, but cautioned that diplomatic success remains uncertain, pointing to early signs of disagreement between the parties. According to him, Israel opposes including Lebanon in the ceasefire agreement, while Iran supports its inclusion.

By Sabina Mammadli