Sümeyra ULUS
One of the leaders who has drawn considerable attention in European politics in recent years is undoubtedly Pedro Sánchez. The Spanish Prime Minister has emerged as a figure who stands apart from the traditional leadership profile in Europe, not only through his domestic political initiatives but also through the positions he has adopted in foreign policy. Particularly when it comes to developments in the Middle East, debates over international law, and relations with major powers, the language Sánchez employs and the positions he takes place the government in Madrid in a different position compared with many other European administrations.
In recent years, many leaders across Europe have preferred to follow a more cautious line in matters of foreign policy. This is especially visible in relations with the United States, where most European capitals tend to use a language largely aligned with Washington. However, the Sánchez administration has occasionally stepped outside this framework with statements that diverge from the prevailing tone. This has become particularly visible in the context of crises in the Middle East.
The government in Madrid has consistently emphasized international law and the protection of civilians in its statements regarding Gaza and the broader humanitarian situation in the region. Compared with the more cautious diplomatic language adopted by some European governments, this approach is often perceived as more explicit and direct. Sánchez’s stance in this regard is not interpreted merely as an ideological posture but also as a continuation of Spain’s historical foreign policy reflexes. For many years, Madrid has considered a Mediterranean-centered diplomatic outlook to be an essential component of its external relations.
Spain’s approach has naturally created occasional tensions in its relations with Israel. While the Sánchez government continues to maintain diplomatic ties with Israel, it has also openly voiced criticism of certain policies pursued by Tel Aviv. The relatively small number of European leaders willing to articulate such criticisms publicly has contributed to Sánchez becoming a more visible figure in international media.
At the same time, it would be incomplete to interpret Spain’s foreign policy orientation solely through developments in the Middle East. In recent years, Madrid has sought to assume a more active role not only within the European Union but also across the Mediterranean basin and in other geopolitical regions. One important component of this strategy is the strengthening relationship with Türkiye.
In recent years, a noticeable diplomatic rapprochement has taken place between Ankara and Madrid. Relations between the two countries extend well beyond political dialogue; cooperation in the defense industry, trade, and economic partnerships has become an important part of the relationship. Within the European Union, Spain stands out as one of the countries maintaining the most balanced and stable relations with Türkiye. In particular, cooperation in the defense sector represents a significant example of how the two countries can also act together in matters of strategic security.
This rapprochement is not driven solely by economic considerations. Spain’s approach toward Türkiye is largely grounded in pragmatism, rather than in the ideological debates that sometimes characterize discussions elsewhere in Europe. The government in Madrid views Türkiye not only as a neighboring country or a NATO ally but also as a key actor in the strategic balance of the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Another notable dimension of the evolving relationship is the growing cultural interaction between the societies of the two countries. Communication between Turkish and Spanish users on social media platforms has gradually evolved into an interesting form of social rapprochement. Exchanges initially centered on football clubs, music, cuisine, and shared historical narratives have fostered an unexpected sense of mutual sympathy between the two societies.
Among younger generations in particular, interest in both Türkiye and Spain has been steadily increasing. This development provides an important foundation for diplomatic relations. International relations are shaped not only by the decisions of governments but also by perceptions among societies. The interaction developing through social media has therefore contributed to placing the diplomatic dialogue between the two countries on a stronger social foundation.
It is precisely at this point that the foreign policy stance of Pedro Sánchez gains particular significance. While many European leaders pursue a more cautious and low-profile diplomacy, Sánchez has at times adopted a more open and assertive tone. He represents an approach capable of criticizing Washington without severing ties, questioning certain Israeli policies, and at the same time developing pragmatic cooperation with Türkiye.
This posture has made Sánchez a closely watched leader in European politics. Some observers consider his approach excessively bold, while others interpret it as part of Spain’s broader effort to become more visible in global politics.
The emerging picture today suggests that the government in Madrid seeks to remain firmly within the European Union while simultaneously pursuing a more multidimensional foreign policy. Relations with the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, and Türkiye have become central components of this strategy.
For this reason, Sánchez’s political line should not be viewed merely as the personal preference of a single leader, but rather as a reflection of Spain’s evolving foreign policy vision. At a time when diplomatic balances across Europe are shifting rapidly, the policy pursued by Madrid may increasingly become a subject of debate in the continent’s political discussions in the years ahead.
