On the eve of his official visit to the Egyptian capital, Felipe VI addressed the Spanish community with a speech expressing deep concern over events in the Gaza Strip. The monarch noted that the consequences of military actions have led to devastating human losses and destruction, with civilian suffering reaching unprecedented levels. He stressed that the region is facing extreme instability, calling for efforts to restore peace and dialogue.
The gathering took place in one of Cairo’s central hotels, where hundreds of Spaniards living in Egypt assembled. The city was decorated with national flags, highlighting the significance of the visit. Felipe VI recalled periods of hope in the history of Middle East peace efforts, referencing events from the 1990s when negotiations between Israel and Palestine appeared to be a genuine step toward peace. However, he noted, regional stability now seems like an almost unattainable dream.
The King of Spain also remarked that the current period in the Middle East is marked by anxiety and uncertainty. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in the need to strengthen cooperation with Egypt, which remains a key partner in pursuing a long-term and courageous peace. The monarch reminded the audience that Egypt was the first Arab country to establish diplomatic relations with Israel and continues to play an important role in mediation efforts between the parties in conflict.
The visit of Felipe VI and Letizia to Egypt coincided with a period of heightened diplomatic tensions between Madrid and Tel Aviv. The Spanish government recently announced a series of measures aimed at increasing pressure on Israeli authorities, including restrictions on arms trade and a ban on ships carrying fuel for the Israeli army from entering Spanish ports. These steps were taken in response to ongoing hostilities and the numerous civilian casualties in Gaza.
As part of the official itinerary, the royal couple will meet with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt and his wife at the presidential palace. Talks are planned with the prime minister, heads of parliament and the senate, as well as the secretary general of the Arab League. This time, the traditional state dinner has been canceled due to the tragic events in Gaza. In recent days, el-Sisi has toughened his rhetoric toward Israel, accusing it of violating all possible political and military boundaries.
Felipe VI also drew attention to the historical ties between Spain and Egypt, recalling notable Spaniards who contributed to cultural relations between the two countries. He noted that today, Spanish entrepreneurs, scientists, academics, and volunteers are actively working in Egypt, demonstrating the strength and diversity of bilateral relations, which, with this visit, are reaching a new level of strategic partnership.
