JUST IN: “When Aznar supported the Iraq war, look at what happened to us”
In a major development, the following story has emerged from the international scene.
Former Spanish president José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero defends Pedro Sánchez’s government and condemns the right’s stance on war, patriotism, and international relations at a rally in León.
Former Spanish president José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero entered the electoral campaign for Castilla y León with a forceful speech on Friday, delivering strong criticism of the right-wing opposition and reaffirming his support for the Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) candidate for regional president, Carlos Martínez. In a rally that combined personal support for Martínez with sharp attacks on the right, Zapatero also offered a defense of Spain’s international stance, focusing on the government’s position on the Middle East and its rejection of military intervention.
Zapatero Defends Sánchez’s Stance on War and International Legality
Zapatero used his speech in León, the capital of his home province, to voice staunch backing for the foreign policy of current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, especially in relation to the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Iran. Drawing on Spain’s history, he invoked the painful memory of the 2004 Madrid bombings, which followed then-Prime Minister José María Aznar’s support for the Iraq War. “Look at how our security was defended when Aznar supported the war in Iraq and what happened to us,” Zapatero said, referencing the 11-M attacks. He framed Sánchez’s refusal to back military intervention in the Middle East as a matter of patriotism, stressing that “being patriotic means telling the president of the United States: no. In Spain, Spain rules.”
Zapatero also criticized the argument from some on the right that supporting military action in the region is necessary for Spain’s security. “You have to be brave and patriotic to tell that president of the United States: no,” he declared, emphasizing Spain’s sovereignty. The rally in León, attended by many of the region’s PSOE supporters, turned into a collective declaration of support for Sánchez’s position against military interventions in foreign conflicts.
“No to that barbarism, not to that barbarity like the barbarity of Gaza, where more than 20,000 children died, not that barbarity,” Zapatero told the crowd, condemning the actions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and voicing his unyielding stance on the killing of innocent civilians.
A Moral Stand Against Netanyahu and Authoritarian Regimes
Zapatero did not hold back in his condemnation of Israeli policies, especially the ongoing assault on Gaza. “We will never stop denouncing what happened to the Palestinian people,” he asserted. “We will never support a Netanyahu policy.” His comments drew a sharp distinction between opposing violence and authoritarian regimes, citing Iran’s oppressive government while insisting that the suffering of civilians should not be overlooked. “Of course we don’t like the ayatollahs’ regime, but are the girls who are dying in schools and civilians to blame?” he asked the crowd.
In a deeply emotional appeal, Zapatero recalled his own childhood during Spain’s dictatorship. “I would have liked this country to have been bombed when I was 12 years old because there was a dictator,” he said, emphasizing the human cost of war. He framed his opposition to military intervention within a broader defense of international law, declaring, “No one can attack a country without the agreement of the Security Council.”
Zapatero further underscored Spain’s consistent condemnation of foreign military actions, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the United States’ stance on Iran. “The Government condemned it out of coherence, out of convictions,” he said, reaffirming Spain’s role in global diplomacy based on international law.
Attacks on the Right and Vox’s Influence
The former president also took aim at the right-wing opposition, particularly the Popular Party (PP) and its alliance with the far-right Vox. Zapatero criticized the right for what he described as a lack of independent thought, accusing them of blindly following the lead of Vox. “Look at the PP, how it follows Vox all day long?” he questioned. “The Popular Party has to have a project, an identity, a profile,” Zapatero argued, suggesting that the PP had surrendered its autonomy.
In contrast, Zapatero positioned Sánchez as a leader of principle, one who upholds “the patriotism of peace,” “the patriotism of reason,” and “the patriotism of dialogue.” He dismissed the right-wing’s accusations against Sánchez, suggesting that their criticisms were driven by his uncomfortable stance on international issues. “They can’t stand it,” he said, adding that Sánchez was “the reference international leader for the great democrats and progressives of the world.”
A Personal and Political Defense of Carlos Martínez
Zapatero’s speech also served to rally support for Carlos Martínez, the PSOE candidate for President of the Castilla y León government. Acknowledging Martínez’s work as mayor of Soria, Zapatero praised his leadership, calling him “a magnificent mayor” and “an exemplary socialist militant.” He emphasized Martínez’s identity and personality as qualities that set him apart from other candidates.
Zapatero urged PSOE supporters to view the upcoming regional elections not as a referendum on Sánchez but as an opportunity to improve the lives of the people of Castilla y León. “These elections are not against Sánchez nor in favor of Sánchez,” Zapatero stated. “These elections are in favor of Castilla y León.” He expressed full confidence in the PSOE’s ability to win, declaring, “This party achieves it when it wants, when it feels it, it achieves it.”
Defending PSOE’s Legacy and Spain’s Democratic Achievements
Zapatero also took a moment to reflect on his longstanding commitment to the PSOE and its contributions to Spanish democracy. “I am proud of the party that has done the most for democracy in Spain,” he declared. He spoke of the party’s pivotal role in modernizing Spain and expanding social rights, highlighting achievements in public health, education, and gender equality.
He also defended Spain’s stance on historical memory, emphasizing the PSOE’s commitment to remembering the victims of Franco’s regime. “We have forgiven and we have reconciled,” he said, stressing the party’s capacity for remembrance, reconciliation, and coexistence.
A Call for Unity and Against Polarization
In a final appeal to the electorate, Zapatero called for a reduction in political tension and an end to the growing polarization within Spanish society. He condemned the use of immigration as a political weapon, urging a more compassionate approach to newcomers. “Coherence, ethics make us treat the people who come to work well, to have a future and dignity,” he said, referencing the legacy of Spanish emigrants and the immigrants who have since made Spain their home.
Zapatero’s rally in León was not only a boost for Carlos Martínez but also a clear statement of support for the PSOE’s policies, legacy, and vision for the future. The former president’s impassioned speech set the tone for the campaign, positioning the PSOE as a party committed to peace, democracy, and the welfare of Spain’s citizens.
The Bigger Picture:
This development could have far-reaching consequences for global politics in the months ahead.
As the situation continues to evolve, analysts are closely watching for further developments.
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Source: This article was originally published in another language by El Español – Home and has been translated and adapted for our global English-speaking audience. Read the original article here.