Sanchez attacks Washington and the occupation: War on Iran 'absurd' and Lebanon faces Gaza's fate

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez launched a scathing attack on the military policies pursued by the United States and the occupying state in the region, describing the ongoing aggression against Iran as an 'unjust and illegal' act. Sanchez affirmed in a speech before the Spanish Congress that these moves undermined the foundations of international law and reignited conflicts in Iraq and Lebanon in a way that threatens international peace and security.

The Spanish leader accused the head of the occupying government, Benjamin Netanyahu, of systematically seeking to inflict widespread destruction on Lebanon, similar to the genocide and destruction suffered by the Gaza Strip. These warnings came after statements by Israeli ministers revealing clear intentions to fully control southern Lebanon, reflecting a desire to expand the geographical scope of the conflict.

Sanchez warned that the current scenario in the Middle East carries risks 'much worse' than the repercussions of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, indicating that the impacts would be deeper and more comprehensive globally. He explained that the failure that accompanied the American invasion of Iraq is being repeated today, as civilians in Europe and the world are paying the price for these reckless military decisions.

On the economic front, the Spanish Prime Minister revealed that companies in his country incurred huge losses estimated at about 100 billion euros (116 billion dollars) within less than a month of the outbreak of the conflict. He stressed that the continuation of attacks on Iran would lead to unprecedented global inflation, as every increase in oil prices is linked to a direct rise in inflation rates that burden families.

Economic reports indicate that Iran, which produces about 3.2 million barrels of oil per day, represents a key pillar in the global energy market, and any disruption to its supplies will lead to a jump in prices. Experts expect barrel prices to range between 120 and 200 dollars if the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of global oil trade and a quarter of liquefied gas trade passes, is closed.

In a move reflecting diplomatic tension, Sanchez announced his categorical rejection of Washington's request to use Spanish military bases to launch attacks against Iranian targets. The Spanish Prime Minister did not succumb to US President Donald Trump's threats to cut trade relations, affirming his country's commitment to an ethical and legal stance that rejects involvement in illegal wars.

Coinciding with these positions, the Spanish government approved an emergency aid package worth 5 billion euros to support the local economy and alleviate the burden of rising fuel prices on citizens. This step comes amid growing European opposition to the war, with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier describing the conflict as a 'catastrophic political mistake' that could have been avoided through diplomacy.

The US administration faces increasing internal pressure, as opinion polls showed a decline in Donald Trump's popularity to 36%, while 61% of Americans oppose the military strikes that began last February. This decline reflects a state of public concern about the economic and political consequences of engaging in an open regional conflict with no end in sight.

On the humanitarian level, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned that the ongoing conflict threatens a global hunger catastrophe that could affect 700 million people due to the disruption of supply chains. Concerns are growing about Iran's ability to close the Strait of Hormuz using its arsenal of coastal missiles, which could cut off Qatari gas supplies exceeding 77 million tons annually.

Sanchez concluded his speech by emphasizing that 'every bomb that falls in the Middle East hits our families' wallets,' referring to the close link between political stability in the region and global economic well-being. He stressed the need to return to the negotiating table and respect the sovereignty of states to prevent the world from sliding into an uncontrollable economic and humanitarian crisis.

Every bomb that falls in the Middle East hits our families' wallets and destabilizes the entire world.