Spanish Prime Minister Advocates Full UN Membership for Palestine

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, a vocal critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, on Monday called for the State of Palestine to be admitted as a full member of the United Nations following a French-led summit on recognition.

Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Sánchez said: “This conference marks a milestone, but it’s not the end of the road. It’s only the beginning.”

He added: “The State of Palestine must be a full member of the United Nations. The process for the State of Palestine to join this organisation must be completed as soon as possible, on an equal footing with other states. Second, we must take immediate measures to stop the barbarism and make peace possible.”

Context and Reactions

• Sánchez, from Spain’s left-wing Socialist Party, has been one of the most outspoken critics of Israel’s offensive in Gaza, which began in response to the Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023.
• Spain, along with Ireland and Norway, officially recognised a Palestinian state in May 2025.
• Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described Sánchez as “antisemitic” and a “liar” after the Prime Minister praised pro-Palestinian protesters who disrupted Spain’s Vuelta cycling race.
• In response, Spain summoned Israel’s top diplomat in Madrid to address the controversy.

Sánchez’s remarks underscore Spain’s ongoing support for Palestinian statehood and reflect the growing international debate over UN recognition and the path to peace in the region. The Prime Minister called for urgent action to halt violence and ensure that Palestine is treated on equal footing with other member states.