Leaders Convene in Madrid to Back Gaza Peace Initiative
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met in Madrid on Monday, January 13, 2026, to express their joint support for the comprehensive implementation of a US-backed Gaza peace plan. The meeting, marking the first visit by a Greek premier to Spain in 13 years, also encompassed discussions on the evolving situation in Venezuela and avenues for enhancing bilateral economic relations between the two nations.
Commitment to Peace and Stability in Gaza
During a joint news conference, Prime Minister Mitsotakis articulated the shared stance, stating, 'We support the full implementation of the peace plan. We look forward to a rapid transition to the second phase and at the same time we consider the disarmament of Hamas as a necessary condition for long-term security.' The peace framework, identified as a 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, saw a ceasefire agreement take effect on October 10, which aimed to halt Israeli attacks. The leaders' endorsement underscores the international push for a lasting resolution in the region, with a clear emphasis on moving towards the subsequent phases of the peace initiative and addressing security concerns through the disarmament of Hamas.
Broader Diplomatic Agenda: Venezuela and Economic Ties
Beyond the Middle East, the leaders' agenda included a focus on the political landscape in Venezuela. Both Sánchez and Mitsotakis stressed the immediate priority of de-escalation and facilitating a 'smooth transition to a new government with democratic legitimacy.' This discussion followed a recent development on January 3, when US forces reportedly carried out a military operation in Venezuela, leading to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, with President Trump indicating his administration would 'run' Venezuela and its oil assets during a transition period. Furthermore, the meeting served as a platform to discuss improving economic relations between Spain and Greece. Prime Minister Sánchez commended Greece's economic recovery following its financial crisis from 2009 to 2019, and both leaders expressed a mutual desire to strengthen economic cooperation.
The US-Backed Peace Plan: Key Components
The US-brokered peace plan envisions several critical steps for the future of Gaza. Notably, Hamas has indicated its willingness to dissolve its existing government in Gaza once a Palestinian technocratic leadership committee assumes control, as stipulated by the plan. This transition is intended to be monitored by a 'Board of Peace,' which will oversee key aspects such as:
- The disarmament of Hamas
- The deployment of an international security force
- Additional pullbacks of Israeli troops
- The reconstruction of Gaza
The joint declaration by Spain and Greece highlights the ongoing international efforts to navigate the complexities of the Gaza conflict and establish a framework for long-term peace and stability in the region.
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
Another ceasefire that will inevitably collapse. We've seen this playbook too many times.
Noir Black
The emphasis on an international security force and Israeli troop pullbacks seems necessary for Gaza's long-term future. However, the details of how an international force would operate and maintain neutrality are crucial and not fully elaborated here.
KittyKat
The focus on reconstruction and an international security force is exactly what Gaza needs. Positive steps!
Muchacha
The idea of a 'Board of Peace' overseeing disarmament and reconstruction is a good structural concept for stability. Yet, the success of such a board depends heavily on the genuine cooperation of all parties, which is often easier said than done in such complex conflicts.
Bella Ciao
Disarming Hamas is absolutely essential. This is the only way forward for true security.