Sánchez: 'No to the war' — Spain's government stance in four words

Sánchez tells Iran 'No to the war': empty gesture or economic ruin

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has declared that his position on the conflict between the US and Iran can be summed up in four words: 'No to the war'. The decision, which means denying Spain's bases for refuelling operations, has sparked a debate over its economic and diplomatic impact. While the government claims a pacifist profile, its critics say it is pure theatre for domestic consumption, at a time when Spain is facing the worst economic crisis in its history and international isolation.

The hypocrisy of the pacifist rhetoric

The analysts' central argument is the glaring contradiction: the same government that has sent weapons and money to Ukraine now refuses to provide logistical support to the United States. 'If he were truly consistent, he should impose unilateral sanctions on the US, as was done with Russia,' some argue. Others point out that Spain did not hesitate to take part in the destruction of Libya in 2011, under a Socialist government. Strategic cynicism is the recurring accusation: 'international law' is applied only when it suits.

The price of lost sovereignty

The lack of deterrence capacity is another sore point. Without nuclear weapons or a solid defence industry, Spain depends on its alliances. 'Sovereignty comes from having nuclear cucumbers,' goes the argument, alluding to the fact that the country has systematically given up its defensive capability since the assassination of Carrero Blanco. Sánchez's stance, far from being a gesture of independence, leaves Spain in no man's land: it is neither belligerent nor neutral, and it implicitly aligns itself with regimes such as Iran's, which its critics call a 'villain'. Meanwhile, the opposition is conspicuous by its absence, and the country is heading for a massive economic crash.

A slogan in the face of complexity

Reducing foreign policy to a banner slogan is, for many, the essence of Sánchezism. 'In the complexity of today's world, our prime minister responds with a slogan,' they lament. The question left hanging is whether Spain has anything to back up its stance. Without real negotiating power, Sánchez's position may translate into more isolation and less investment, just when the economy needs partners.

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