Spain vs. Sánchez: Tens of thousands in the streets – and the government is shaken

The Spanish parliament rejected two housing decrees of Sánchez's government after it failed to secure support from smaller parties. Against the backdrop of massive protests across Spain, the possibility of early elections is strengthening, and the prime minister's political future is in doubt.

The Spanish parliament dealt a political blow to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on Friday, rejecting two housing decrees promoted by his government. The first decree, which included extending rental contracts and limiting rent increases, was rejected by a vote of 178 to 172. Voting against the government were the People's Party, Vox, and the Catalan party Junts – a party whose support is vital for the minority government. Sánchez's government holds only 147 seats out of 350. The failure comes amid a wave of protests over the housing crisis: tens of thousands took to the streets in more than 50 cities, and according to Reuters, about 70,000 protested in Madrid alone. According to the EFE news agency, Sánchez has entered a consultation period, and the possibility of early elections, likely at the end of November, is being seriously considered. The article notes that Sánchez, who has led a critical line toward Israel and recognized a Palestinian state, may find himself fighting for his political future at home.