Sánchez Welcomes Iran War Ceasefire But Fires Broadside at Trump: 'We Won't Applaud Those Who Set the World on Fire'

'Good News — But We Won't Forget the Chaos'

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has welcomed the announcement of a two-week ceasefire in the Iran war, describing it as "good news" — but took a direct shot at US President Donald Trump.

In a posting on X, Sánchez wrote: "Ceasefires are always good news. Especially if they lead to a just and lasting peace. But momentary relief cannot make us forget the chaos, destruction and lives lost."

He then added, in a barely veiled reference to Trump: "The Government of Spain will not applaud those who set the world on fire because they show up with a bucket."

Sánchez affirmed that it is now time for diplomacy, international legality and peace.

Albares: 'A Ray of Hope' — But Far From Over

Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares also welcomed the ceasefire, calling it "a ray of hope" — but warned there is a "very short" period to see if it will bear fruit.

Speaking to Radio Nacional, Albares said: "We have come close to catastrophe as humanity" — a reference to Trump's threat to "annihilate an entire civilisation" if Iran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

He cautioned that the ceasefire is not a definitive step. The positions of the United States and Iran remain far apart, and Israel considers that the agreement does not include Lebanon. But, he said, "an escalation is stopped."

Spain Refuses to Join Hormuz Discussions

Asked about the possibility of Spain taking part in any operation to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, Albares made it clear that as long as hostilities continue, Spain will do "nothing that could escalate the situation."

He confirmed that Spain refused to attend a meeting held in London days earlier where options to keep the strait open were discussed — distancing Spain from the more hawkish approach taken by some allies.

What the Ceasefire Means

The two-week ceasefire — if it holds — could provide a window for genuine negotiations. For Spain and the wider EU, the most immediate impact would be on energy prices, fuel supply and aviation, all of which have been severely affected by the conflict.

However, with Israel signalling the agreement may not cover Lebanon, and the US and Iran still far apart on key demands, the truce remains fragile. Spain's position is clear: welcome the pause, push for lasting peace, and refuse to be drawn into escalation.

This article is based on reporting from The Olive Press, published April 8, 2026. This is a developing story. This article is for informational purposes only.