️ Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez delivered a firm rebuttal to US President Donald Trump's threat to cut off all trade with Spain, reiterating his government's opposition to war and what he termed the "breakdown of international law." In a 10-minute televised address, Sánchez reflected on the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the Iraq War over two decades ago, stating that Spain's position could be summarized as "no to war." This response comes amid escalating tensions over Spain's refusal to permit US strikes on Iran from jointly operated bases at Morón and Rota.
️ Trump allegedly threatened to impose a full trade embargo on Spain, calling the country a "terrible partner" in NATO for failing to increase its defense budget to meet the 5% of GDP target. Sánchez, while avoiding direct mention of Trump, indicated that the government is studying economic measures to counter the conflict's impact on Spanish citizens. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and European Council President António Costa, expressed solidarity with Spain, highlighting friction within transatlantic relations.
️ In his address, Sánchez emphasized, "The question is not if we are on the side of the ayatollahs [Iran's clerical rulers] - nobody is. The question is whether we are in favour of peace and international legality." He warned that "you cannot answer one illegality with another, because that is how the great catastrophes of humanity begin," drawing parallels to Spain's stance on Ukraine and Gaza. Sánchez has been a vocal critic of Israel's military actions in Gaza, with Spain describing them as "genocide" and recognizing a Palestinian state ahead of many EU members.
️ Reflecting on the 2003 Iraq invasion, Sánchez noted its failure to achieve objectives and worsening of ordinary people's lives, cautioning that attacks on Iran could yield similar economic hardships for millions. His reference to the unpopular support for that war by Spain's conservative government resonates with domestic voters, linking past anti-war protests to current geopolitical dilemmas. This stance starkly contrasts with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's comment that regime change in Iran would leave the world "a little better off," despite acknowledging risks.
️ Unlike NATO allies such as the UK, France, and Greece, Spain has not committed to military involvement in response to the war, underscoring its cautious approach. Sánchez also expressed solidarity with countries "illegally attacked by the Iranian regime," balancing criticism with diplomatic nuance. The incident exposes deeper challenges within Sánchez's coalition government, which faces political pressure and speculation of collapse, amid allegations of corruption and struggles to maintain a parliamentary majority.
Source: www.bbc.com