Spanish Prime Minister (PM) Pedro Sanchez has released a video message addressing Gaza resident Layan and artists in the besieged strip after a mural they created went viral.
The mural depicts Sanchez, painted by Layan Al Quqa alongside artists, to mark ties between Spain and Palestine.
In the video, Sanchez thanked Layan, the other artists, and the population of Gaza for what he described as a “beautiful gesture”, stating that it moved him and acknowledginh that individuals in Gaza took time to show “such affection toward Spain” despite their suffering.
Directly addressing children in Gaza and families in the area, Sanchez stated, “The whole of Spanish society hears you, sees you, loves you, and does not forget you.”
Sanchez added that he hopes the children of Gaza can “return to painting without fear in their schools and live a future of peace”. He ended the message by sending “An enormous hug from Spain” to children and families in Gaza.
Sanchez has positioned Spain as a main proponent of Palestinian statehood in Europe. Spain officially recognised the State of Palestine in May 2024 alongside Ireland and Norway.
The Spanish parliament also approved measures to enforce an arms embargo on Israel and halt arms trade. Spanish authorities continue to call for a ceasefire, aid access, and peace negotiations in Gaza.
