Spanish Government Collapses, Sánchez Calls Early Elections Amid Crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced snap parliamentary elections scheduled for November 29, nearly two years ahead of schedule, following a prolonged political crisis and weakening parliamentary support. Sánchez informed King Felipe VI of his intention to dissolve parliament, stating the need for broader citizen backing to implement his agenda. The immediate trigger for the early elections was the failure of two government decrees aimed at resolving the housing crisis, which were not supported by parliament. Notably, the Catalan party Junts, which had previously helped Sánchez form a minority government, opposed the initiative.

The upcoming campaign will also be shaped by Spain's increasingly critical stance towards Israel under Sánchez's leadership. Madrid has recognized the State of Palestine, imposed an arms embargo on Israel, and announced further restrictions for September 2025, including prohibiting vessels carrying fuel for the Israeli military from Spanish ports and limiting the use of Spanish airspace for Israeli military cargo flights. Spain has also restricted imports from Israeli settlements and curtailed consular services for Spanish citizens residing there, while banning entry for individuals linked to actions in Gaza and increasing aid to the Palestinian Authority and UNRWA.

Sánchez himself has been vocal in his criticism of Israel, condemning actions by Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir and calling for an EU-wide entry ban. At the UN General Assembly, Sánchez accused Israel of "genocide" in Gaza and announced an embargo. Relations further soured after a Spanish minister expressed support for a "Palestine from the river to the sea," leading Israel's Foreign Ministry to summon Spain's acting envoy and accuse Madrid of a "systematic anti-Israeli policy."

The potential change in government in Spain could impact its relations with Israel. Current polls indicate a lead for the center-right People's Party, with significant support for the far-right Vox party. If these trends hold, these parties could form a new government. Sánchez faces challenges beyond the housing crisis, including corruption scandals, migration issues, and a lack of a stable parliamentary majority, with his socialists trailing the right in polls.