Top figures from the anti-globalist Patriots for Europe (PfE), including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and France’s Marine Le Pen, are set to meet in Madrid this weekend for a summit organized by Spain’s Vox.
Though the official agenda doesn’t mention it, recent remarks by Donald Trump about “taking over” Gaza and relocating nearly two million Palestinians to neighboring countries are expected to spark discussion.
The issue gained momentum after Israel suggested on Thursday that Spain, Ireland, and Norway—three nations that recently recognized Palestinian statehood—should take in Gazans willing to leave. Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares swiftly shut down the idea, calling it an unacceptable interference in domestic affairs.
The gathering comes at a pivotal moment for Vox. Riding high in the polls, the party has solidified its presence in Spanish politics, governing alongside the right-wing Partido Popular in multiple regions and municipalities. Yet, despite its growing influence, Vox has been dealing with internal strife.
Vox was previously aligned with the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) in the European Parliament but left in July 2024 to join Patriots for Europe. The alliance now includes Italy’s La Lega, Hungary’s Fidesz, France’s National Rally (RN), and Belgium’s Vlaams Belang, among others.
As the Madrid summit unfolds, the debate over Gaza, European sovereignty, and political realignments will likely take center stage—whether it’s on the agenda or not.
