October
02.10.2024
Wednesday

The day Israel entered Lebanon

The escalation between Israel and Iran dominated the news, with Iran launching a massive missile attack on Israel. Netanyahu promised retaliation, while Iran threatened a stronger response if Israel reacted. Israel intensified its operations in southern Lebanon, sending more troops and engaging in ground combat with Hezbollah. The conflict expanded, with Israel declaring the UN Secretary-General persona non grata. Spanish media reported on plans to evacuate Spanish nationals from Lebanon. Throughout the day, the situation in Lebanon deteriorated, with reports of Israeli soldiers killed in combat. The expanding conflict overshadowed domestic Spanish news, though some outlets reported on economic issues and political developments related to the Catalan independence movement.
Israel launched its largest attack on central Beirut, urging evacuation of southern Lebanon. Reports emerged of Israeli forces suffering heavy casualties in a Hezbollah ambush during ground operations. The conflict's escalation prompted Spain to evacuate its citizens, with the first plane landing in Madrid. Domestically, the Spanish government reached an agreement with EH Bildu to reform the "gag law", prohibiting rubber bullets and hot returns at borders. The CNI finalized its report on the Pegasus spyware used to spy on Prime Minister Sánchez. Internationally, concerns grew about the potential for a wider conflict, with discussions of possible Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and U.S. plans to target Iranian oil wells.
Israel launched a powerful bombardment in southern Beirut, targeting Hezbollah's leadership, potentially the successor to Nasrallah. This escalation follows previous days' tensions in Lebanon. Domestically, the National Court summoned Rajoy's police leadership to testify about alleged dirty war tactics against Podemos, signaling a significant development in long-standing political controversies. The government's proposal for "flexible" sick leave sparked opposition from unions and left-wing parties. Economic news focused on the European Commission's decision to proceed with tariffs on Chinese cars, despite resistance from some countries. The petroleum market tensed in anticipation of potential Israeli retaliation against Iran, with experts warning of possible price spikes.
The anniversary of the October 7 attack marked a significant escalation in Israel's military actions. Netanyahu rallied troops at the Lebanese border while Israel bombarded Beirut, Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon. Two terrorist attacks in Israel, including one at a bus station, resulted in casualties. Iran temporarily closed its airspace amid fears of an Israeli strike. The conflict's expansion raised international concerns, with protests in support of Palestine occurring across Spain. Media coverage highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Domestically, Spanish politics focused on housing issues and the aftermath of recent elections, while economic news reported a decrease in mortgage interest rates to their lowest level since January 2023.
The controversy over a law reducing sentences for ETA prisoners dominated Spanish news on October 8, 2024. The morning began with reports of the government defending the reform based on European law. The People's Party (PP) and Vox attempted to block the law in the Senate but failed. By midday, PP leader Feijóo apologized for initially supporting the "trick" and blamed Sánchez for the "outrage to victims." The government accused the PP of using ETA for political gain. In the afternoon, the PP postponed the Senate vote after the PSOE and allies refused to withdraw amendments. By evening, the PP decided not to dismiss deputies who supported the law, calling it a "collective responsibility." Throughout the day, various outlets reported on the political maneuvering and public reactions to this contentious issue.
The Spanish Parliament witnessed a heated debate between Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and opposition leader Alberto Feijóo. Sánchez announced plans to reform immigration regulations and integrate migrants, while Feijóo diverted the discussion to ETA and the recent controversy surrounding sentence reductions for ETA prisoners. The PP interruption to seat Marimar Blanco, a victim's relative, heightened tensions. Sánchez defended the changes in sentencing, calling the PP "clumsy." The debate extended to economic issues and the investigation of Begoña Gómez, Sánchez's wife. Meanwhile, Hurricane Milton intensified to Category 5, prompting mass evacuations in Florida. The storm's strength was linked to climate change in media reports. The day ended with Sánchez pressuring Feijóo to return to negotiations on immigration law reform.
Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from tennis, marking the end of an era in Spanish sports. Simultaneously, the Koldo case escalated as the Guardia Civil implicated former minister Ábalos in the corruption scandal. Reports suggested Ábalos played a "relevant role" in influencing decisions related to Air Europa's rescue. The investigation also revealed that Prime Minister Sánchez had approved a meeting between Ábalos and Venezuela's Delcy Rodríguez. In Catalonia, the Parliament supported singular financing for the region while rejecting a referendum. The America's Cup sailing event was inaugurated in Barcelona amidst these political developments. Hurricane Milton's impact on Florida was widely reported throughout the day, with updates on power outages and damage.
11.10.2024
Friday

The day Ábalos faced the storm

The 'Koldo case' intensified, centering on former minister José Luis Ábalos. Early reports revealed the scandal's reach, including benefits for Ábalos's partner. President Sánchez, speaking from the Vatican, promised "no impunity" in his government. The opposition called for Ábalos's resignation, while he requested to testify voluntarily. The case revived investigations into Air Europa's rescue. In other news, Israel continued attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon, and Barcelona proposed increases in waste fees and hotel taxes. The National Statistics Institute updated GDP calculations to include prostitution and drugs. A wolf was spotted in Catalonia for the first time in 16 years, and an exhibition of Cartier-Bresson's photography opened in Barcelona.
12.10.2024
Saturday

The Day of Rain and Whistles

The National Day celebrations in Spain were significantly impacted by heavy rainfall, forcing the cancellation of the aerial display and parachute jump. Despite the weather, the royal family presided over a shortened military parade. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faced boos and whistles from the crowd, continuing a trend of public disapproval. The 'Koldo case' controversy resurfaced, with former minister Ábalos requesting to testify voluntarily. Tensions between Sánchez and opposition leader Feijóo escalated at the royal reception, with exchanges of accusations. The return of a Catalan representative to the celebrations was noted. In other news, concerns about water scarcity in Priorat were reported, and a documentary claiming new findings about Christopher Columbus's origins aired on RTVE.
Housing protests dominated Spain's news cycle on October 13, 2024. Thousands marched in Madrid and other cities, demanding solutions to the housing crisis and lower rents. The demonstrations, led by young people and women, highlighted the growing frustration with high living costs. Meanwhile, political tensions escalated as the PP announced a lawsuit against the PSOE for alleged irregular financing. The ongoing Koldo case and concerns about territorial control continued to strain the PSOE. In international news, Hezbollah's drone attack in southern Haifa, resulting in Israeli casualties, raised alarms. The day concluded with reports of the death of Mayra Gómez Kemp, a iconic figure in Spanish television, marking the end of an era in entertainment.
14.10.2024
Monday

The day of legal offensives

The PP filed a lawsuit against the PSOE for alleged irregular financing, based on anonymous testimonies. The PSOE countered by highlighting 39 corruption cases involving the PP. The prosecution opposed admitting Begoña Gómez's complaint against Judge Peinado. The Koldo case continued to evolve, with accusations against Ábalos and Armengol. Israel faced international criticism for attacks on UN peacekeepers and a Gaza hospital. Hizbullah's drone attack killed four Israeli soldiers. Netanyahu signaled readiness to strike Iranian military targets. Domestic issues persisted, with protests over housing crisis and debates on immigration integration. The Senate's manipulation of regulations delayed the approval of a law on criminal records. Sánchez acknowledged the need for a strong response to housing protests.
The Congress and Senate clashed over a law benefiting ETA prisoners, with the Congress ordering its publication in the BOE despite Senate rejection. This conflict may reach the Constitutional Court. Eduardo Zaplana was sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption. The PP showed openness to supporting pension reform if it adheres to the agreement between unions and employers. The European Commission proposed creating migrant detention centers outside the EU, following Italy's model. Catalonia announced financial aid for young people to purchase homes. Spain committed to an annual budget adjustment of 6 billion euros until 2031. In the evening, the Planeta Prize was awarded to Paloma Sánchez-Garnica for her novel set during the Cold War.
The Supreme Court's decision to indict Attorney General Álvaro García Ortiz for revealing secrets related to Isabel Díaz Ayuso's partner dominated the news cycle. This unprecedented move sparked calls for García Ortiz's resignation from various quarters, including fellow prosecutors. The Attorney General, however, maintained his innocence and refused to step down. The indictment overshadowed other political developments, including the ongoing "Koldo case" involving former PSOE officials. Prime Minister Sánchez faced criticism in parliament over corruption allegations, while the opposition accused him of being involved in the Koldo affair. Immigration issues resurfaced with reports of migrants being deported from Italy to Albania and discussions about housing migrants at Ciudad Real airport. Economic concerns were highlighted by reports of housing shortages and debates over labor regulations.
17.10.2024
Thursday

The day Hamas leader fell

The morning began with reports of the Supreme Court investigating the Attorney General for leaking information. By midday, the Fiscal Council backed García Ortiz despite calls for his resignation. In the afternoon, news broke that Israel had killed Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader and mastermind of the October 7 attack, in Gaza. This development dominated the evening headlines, with Netanyahu declaring it "the beginning of the day after Hamas." Domestic issues persisted, including debates on housing policies and concerns about water scarcity affecting food production. The European Union leaders discussed externalizing migration management, while Italy opened a migrant detention center in Albania. The day concluded with Prime Minister Sánchez defending García Ortiz and calling for Ayuso's resignation, highlighting ongoing political tensions.
18.10.2024
Friday

The day Sinwar fell

The reported death of Yahya Sinwar, Hamas leader in Gaza, dominated the news cycle. Initially framed as potentially ending the conflict, Netanyahu later called it "the beginning of the end." The event sparked international reactions, with the US and EU pushing for a ceasefire. Domestically, the Spanish judiciary rejected Prime Minister Sánchez's lawsuit against Judge Peinado, marking a setback for the government. Migration policies tightened, with Germany and Italy aligning against irregular migration, sidelining Spain. The Italian court's rejection of Meloni's migrant plan added complexity to the European migration debate. Meanwhile, regional issues persisted, with Catalonia maintaining its ban on certain vehicles in low-emission zones and Barcelona experiencing rising commercial rent prices.
The day began with reports of judicial setbacks for Prime Minister Sánchez's strategy against a judge investigating his wife. By afternoon, attention shifted to a controversial tribute at San Mamés stadium for an alpinist who carried a flag with ETA's logo to Everest in 1980. The evening was dominated by railway chaos in Madrid, with two simultaneous incidents affecting thousands of travelers at Atocha and Chamartín stations. This disruption is expected to last for several days. Meanwhile, the assembly of FC Barcelona members approved the club's accounts, including a 91 million euro debt. In international news, New Zealand won the America's Cup in Barcelona, and Israel's strategy in Gaza continued to be a topic of discussion, with reports of a potential exchange involving Hamas leader Sinwar's body for hostages.
Isabel Díaz Ayuso, president of the Community of Madrid, announced she would not attend a meeting with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, citing concerns over Catalonia's financing and alleged defamation. This decision dominated the day's political discourse, with the PP backing Ayuso and the government criticizing her stance. Meanwhile, the CIS poll showed the PP narrowing the gap with PSOE amidst ongoing judicial controversies. The Audiencia Nacional rejected the PP's lawsuit against PSOE for alleged illegal financing. In transportation news, the sale of Renfe tickets remained blocked following a weekend of railway chaos, with Minister Óscar Puente not ruling out sabotage in the Atocha tunnel derailment. Internationally, Israel continued its attacks on Gaza, including strikes on UN schools.
The Spanish government approved a decree to change parliamentary majorities required to elect RTVE council members, effectively sidestepping the PP's opposition. This move dominated morning headlines and discussions. In the afternoon, attention shifted to a train incident in Madrid, where a worker deliberately derailed a train in the Chamartín-Atocha tunnel to prevent a larger accident. The evening saw sports news take center stage, with Real Madrid's dramatic comeback against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. Meanwhile, regional politics continued to simmer, with Isabel Ayuso's PP including Pedro Sánchez in their list of summonses for a commission on Begoña Gómez. The day concluded with reports on the expanding influence of the BRICS summit and Putin's search for a "new world order."
The Koldo case dominated the news cycle as the judge requested the Supreme Court to investigate former minister José Luis Ábalos for his "main role" in the alleged corruption scheme. This development intensified political tensions, with opposition leader Feijóo calling for Prime Minister Sánchez's resignation. The case expanded to include investigations into Ayuso's partner's relationship with Quirón. Housing issues resurfaced with government commitments to mobilize more state land for construction. In sports, Barcelona's victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League provided a brief respite from political news. The day concluded with ongoing debates about RTVE's council composition and its implications for budget negotiations with coalition partners.
24.10.2024
Thursday

The day Errejón left politics

Íñigo Errejón, a prominent figure in Spanish left-wing politics, announced his resignation and departure from politics amid accusations of machista behavior. The story evolved throughout the day, with initial reports of his resignation followed by revelations that Sumar, his political group, had been investigating him for days due to allegations of "psychological abuse". By evening, more women came forward with accusations. This event marks a significant shift in Spanish politics, especially for the left, as Errejón was one of the founding members of Podemos. In other news, the government faced questions about potential meetings between Prime Minister Sánchez and figures involved in the ongoing Koldo corruption case. The day also saw discussions on housing policies, including plans to require private universities to provide student accommodation.
The political career of Íñigo Errejón crumbled as sexual assault allegations surfaced. Sumar and Más Madrid distanced themselves, with the latter expelling a deputy accused of covering up for Errejón. Sumar admitted failings in "detection and prevention" and apologized. The scandal dominated early headlines.

In international news, Israel launched airstrikes against Iran, targeting military objectives and reportedly a nuclear facility. Iran claimed to have repelled the attack, acknowledging limited damage and two soldiers killed.

By evening, attention shifted to sports as Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 4-0 in a decisive El Clásico match, strengthening their position atop La Liga.
The scandal involving Íñigo Errejón dominated Spanish politics, causing turmoil within the left-wing coalition. Sumar faced a significant setback, with Yolanda Díaz's absence drawing criticism. The controversy expanded to Más Madrid, with Rita Maestre releasing a scathing letter about her ex-partner Errejón. Simultaneously, Prime Minister Sánchez faced pressure over his alleged connections to Víctor de Aldama, denying any relationship despite a published photograph. Carles Puigdemont made strategic moves, reinforcing Junts' negotiation position with PSOE. In sports, Barcelona's 4-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabéu overshadowed political news early in the day. Internationally, Evo Morales reported an assassination attempt in Bolivia, while Trump's momentum in the US elections was noted.
The Errejón scandal dominated Spanish news on October 28. Más Madrid admitted to insufficiently investigating a 2023 accusation against Errejón, while maintaining they were unaware of the severity of the allegations. Yolanda Díaz, leader of Sumar, held a press conference in the evening, acknowledging she knew about the 2023 complaint but delegated the investigation to Más Madrid. She expressed regret, stating Errejón should not have been a deputy or spokesperson. The scandal's ripple effects reached other political parties, with Podemos claiming they had informed Díaz about a complaint against Errejón before the July 2023 elections. As political figures scrambled to distance themselves from Errejón, the media landscape was dominated by discussions of accountability and political responsibility.
A catastrophic DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels) storm hit eastern Spain, particularly Valencia, causing unprecedented flooding. Early reports indicated several deaths, but the toll rapidly escalated throughout the day. By morning, 13 fatalities were confirmed, rising to 51 by midday. The number continued to climb, reaching 62, then 70, and finally 95 by evening. The disaster was deemed the worst DANA of the century, with multiple children among the victims. Rescue operations were ongoing, with many people trapped on rooftops. The severity prompted a crisis committee formation by the government. Infrastructure was severely impacted, with AVE high-speed rail service between Madrid and Valencia suspended until Sunday. The catastrophe overshadowed other news, including developments in the investigation of Begoña Gómez and the Supreme Court's order to search the State Attorney General's office.
31.10.2024
Thursday

The day the DANA tsunami struck

The catastrophic DANA (Isolated High-Level Depression) in Spain intensified dramatically, with death tolls rising throughout the day. Initially reported at 95, the number of fatalities surged to 158 by evening, with many still missing. Valencia bore the brunt, described as "devastated by a tsunami." Castellón faced a red alert, prompting authorities to urge residents to stay in elevated areas. The disaster spread to Catalunya, with red alerts issued for several regions. Emergency services struggled with rescue efforts, hampered by flooding and infrastructure damage. The government acknowledged significant errors in managing the crisis. Climate scientists linked the event's severity to climate change, noting it doubled the probability of such a catastrophic DANA. As night fell, concerns grew about continuing rains and potential further casualties.
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