Letter From CHP Chairperson Özgür Özel to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez

H.E. Mr. Pedro Sánchez

Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Spain

President of the Socialist International

Madrid

Dear Mr. Prime Minister,

Dear Mr. President,

We have been following closely the developments triggered by the attacks carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran. As the Republican People’s Party (CHP), our position regarding these developments is clear. We oppose the attacks carried out against our neighbour Iran in disregard of international law and reject any course of action that risks plunging our already fragile region into a wider war.

Our party firmly believes that the Middle East does not need further wars or military interventions. We reject approaches that disregard international law, threaten civilian lives, or seek to impose political outcomes through the use of force. While we do not endorse the repressive and anti-democratic policies of the Iranian regime, we underline that the future of Iran and of our region must be determined solely by the peoples who live here. The security and stability of our region are of vital importance for Türkiye, and we therefore call on all parties to exercise restraint, halt military actions, and return without delay to diplomacy and negotiations.

In this context, we have taken note of the recent remarks directed at Spain by President Donald Trump. Publicly threatening economic retaliation against an ally for defending restraint and international law is both regrettable and misguided. Your firm and principled stance in response to such pressure demonstrates responsible leadership at a time when it is urgently needed.

Your position in the current crisis also reflects the consistency of the approach your government demonstrated during the Gaza war. Your clear emphasis on international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians, and the pursuit of a just and sustainable peace set an important example at that time as well. In this broader sense, Spain’s principled positions on the Middle East — placing diplomacy, justice and international law at the centre — represent an important and constructive voice within the international community.

Allow me also to underline that your leadership carries particular significance not only as Prime Minister of Spain but also as President of the Socialist International. At a time when the international progressive movement must stand firmly for peace, multilateralism and respect for international law, your voice within our common political family provides valuable guidance.

Please be assured that we stand alongside you in defending these principles and in supporting the responsible course you have taken.

With warm regards and solidarity,

Özgür Özel

Chairperson of the Republican People’s Party (CHP)

Vice President of the Socialist International