Understanding Spain's Position in International Affairs
Recent discussions have generated significant criticism towards President Sánchez for his principled and justified opposition to the military aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran. This opposition is not merely a reflection of ideological differences but rather a stand against actions that serve the narrow interests of the aggressors while violating international law. Critics often lament that this stance may lead to Spain’s isolation, especially in the context of a potential conflict with Morocco over the sovereignty of the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, as well as the Canary Islands. They argue that in such scenarios, the United States would side with Morocco while NATO would remain indifferent.
This apprehension is not unfounded, as history has shown similar patterns of isolation. Spain's solitude during its confrontation with the United States in 1898 was a pivotal factor that contributed to its defeat and the subsequent loss of territories including Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam. At that time, Spain found itself in a precarious international position, lacking solid allies in Europe. The European powers, preoccupied with their colonial disputes, did not intervene to defend Spanish interests against the United States. Even during the negotiations of the Treaty of Paris on December 10, 1898, Spain felt the sting of isolation, with the United Kingdom looking to exploit the situation for advantages in the Bay of Algeciras.
Historical Context and Its Implications for Today
Fast forward nearly four decades, and the situation did not improve for Spain. In August 1936, twenty-seven European nations, excluding only Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Switzerland, and Vatican City, signed the Non-Intervention Agreement concerning Spain. This agreement was essentially a pledge to refrain from any direct or indirect involvement in Spain's internal matters. While they promised non-intervention, it facilitated the entry of Italy, Germany, and the Soviet Union into the conflict, resulting in three years of devastating civil war where Spaniards on both sides suffered immensely.
In a more recent historical context, the Green March of 1975 marked a Moroccan invasion of Spanish Sahara, orchestrated with the backing of the U.S. State Department to compel Spain’s withdrawal. Henry Kissinger endorsed this maneuver to ensure Moroccan control, aiming to prevent the emergence of an independent territory aligned with the Soviet bloc and to maintain stability in the region after General Franco's death. The operation was meticulously planned and executed as part of a covert agreement, disregarding the UN-mandated referendum on self-determination.
Given these historical precedents, it is evident that formulating foreign policy based on the expectations of other nations is a flawed approach. Countries often pursue their own interests without hesitation, leaving allies to fend for themselves when it suits them. This reality is even more pronounced today, especially with the concerning standards prevailing among political leaders.
For instance, one must contemplate whether Spain would receive support from figures like Trump, Vance, Rubio, or Merz should the country face an attack from Morocco on Ceuta, Melilla, or the Canary Islands, particularly if Spain were to align too closely with U.S. interests. Such expectations would be a misguided fantasy, as history suggests that Spain would be left to navigate its challenges alone, as has been the case repeatedly.
Thus, Spain's international policy, regardless of the ruling party, must be guided by two key principles: first, the commitment to uphold international legal order and human rights; and second, the necessity of safeguarding Spain's own interests by all legitimate means, including the defense of its territory by its armed forces. Even with limited resources, these forces have historically performed admirably, fostering respect and self-esteem for the nation.
In conclusion, I reiterate my alignment with and support for the Spanish government’s stance against the aggression from the United States and Israel towards Iran, regardless of the motivations behind President Sánchez’s decision. As we reflect on these issues, let us remember the adage attributed to Teresa de Cepeda y Ahumada: "God writes straight with crooked lines."As reported by lavanguardia.com.
