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Spain PM Gains Support On Anti-War Stance As Far-Right Backing Slips

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Spain’s ruling Socialist Party, led by Pedro Sánchez, has seen a rise in voter support following its strong opposition to the U.S.-Israeli war involving Iran. Recent polls show the party gaining momentum after Sánchez took measures such as restricting U.S. military flights linked to the conflict from Spanish airspace and bases, positioning himself as a leading critic of the war.

At the same time, support for the far-right Vox party has declined, with surveys indicating a drop in voter backing. Vox, which has supported the military offensive and maintains close ideological ties with Donald Trump’s movement, has faced backlash as public opinion in Spain largely turns against the conflict, with a majority of respondents opposing the war.

Despite the Socialists’ gains, the conservative People’s Party (PP) continues to lead in overall voter intention, keeping the possibility of a right-wing coalition government alive. Polls suggest a shift of support from smaller and more extreme parties toward mainstream groups, while Spain’s fragmented political landscape means coalition-building will remain essential ahead of the 2027 general election.

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Germany Moves To Clarify Rules On Fighting-Age Men Leaving Country

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Germany is working to clarify provisions in its updated military service law that require men aged 17 to 45 to seek permission before leaving the country for more than three months. The rule, which came into effect in January, drew attention only recently and could potentially impact millions. The defence ministry said it is now drafting clearer exemption guidelines to reduce confusion and avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.

Officials emphasised that military service remains voluntary, despite the stricter registration requirements. The law is part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s armed forces, including the Bundeswehr, amid rising security concerns in Europe. Authorities say the measure is intended to ensure better tracking of eligible individuals in case of emergencies.

The move has sparked criticism from opposition leaders, who argue the law creates uncertainty for citizens. The government, led by Friedrich Merz, aims to expand military personnel to 260,000 by 2035 as part of efforts to boost defence readiness and meet NATO commitments in an increasingly tense geopolitical environment.

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Spain’s Pork Industry Faces Heavy Losses Amid Swine Fever Threat

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Spain’s pork industry is grappling with significant financial losses following an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF), which has led to a sharp drop in export demand and prices. Farmers like Jordi Saltiveri say each pig has lost €30–€40 in value since the outbreak, even in areas not directly affected. Spain, Europe’s largest pork producer, now faces mounting pressure as key markets including the US, Japan, and Mexico halt imports.

The outbreak, traced to infected wild boars near Collserola Park, has prompted strict containment measures. Authorities in Catalonia are culling thousands of wild boars, deploying traps, drones, and surveillance to control the spread. With an estimated 120,000 to 180,000 boars in the region, officials aim to halve the population while enforcing strict biosecurity protocols to protect farms.

Despite efforts, the economic toll is severe, with export losses exceeding €600 million and shipments from Catalonia already down 17%. While domestic consumption remains stable, industry leaders warn that prolonged restrictions could damage Spain’s €25 billion pork sector. Authorities are now racing to eliminate the disease quickly, as a 12-month disease-free period is required before exports can fully resume.

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Pope Leo XIV Urges World Leaders To Choose Peace In First Easter Mass

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Pope Leo XIV called on global leaders to abandon conflict and embrace peace during his first Easter Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Addressing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff urged those with the power to wage wars to instead work toward ending violence, stressing the need for peace in a world increasingly affected by conflict.

Delivering his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, the first US-born pope highlighted growing global indifference to war and suffering. Without naming specific countries, he warned against becoming desensitised to violence and called for weapons to be laid down. He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, while reflecting on the message of nonviolence central to the Easter story.

The Mass, held amid vibrant floral decorations, marked one of Christianity’s most important celebrations — Easter. Pope Leo XIV concluded his address by extending greetings in multiple languages and announcing a prayer vigil for peace later in April. He has consistently spoken out against global conflicts in recent weeks, including making a direct appeal to Donald Trump to seek de-escalation in tensions involving Iran.

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Migrant Tragedy Near Italy Leaves Dozens Missing at Sea

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Two merchant ships near Italy rescued 32 migrants and recovered the bodies of two others after a boat attempting to cross from Libya toward Europe capsized over the Easter weekend, according to rescue charities. Survivors were later transferred to an Italian coast guard vessel and taken to the island of Lampedusa, while authorities had not immediately commented on the incident.

Rescue groups Mediterranea Saving Humans and Sea-Watch said survivors reported that the vessel had initially carried 105 people, with 71 believed lost at sea. Video footage released by Sea-Watch showed migrants clinging to an overturned orange boat as rescuers approached to assist them.

Harsh weather conditions in the Mediterranean this year have complicated migration crossings, reducing departures from North Africa but increasing risks for those who attempt the journey. The International Organization for Migration estimates at least 683 people have died along the central Mediterranean route so far this year, making it one of the deadliest migration corridors globally.

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Zelenskiy Holds Security Talks with Erdogan in Istanbul

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived in Istanbul for high-level security discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, aiming to deepen cooperation on regional stability and defense. Zelenskiy described the talks as “substantive,” emphasizing efforts to strengthen partnerships that protect lives and enhance security across Europe and the Middle East.

The visit comes as Ukraine expands diplomatic outreach to Middle Eastern countries following the escalation of conflict in the region. Kyiv has recently signed security cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, while negotiations with other regional states remain ongoing. Ukrainian officials say the country is sharing expertise gained from its ongoing war with Russia, particularly in countering drone threats.

Alongside political meetings, Zelenskiy is also scheduled to meet Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of the Orthodox Christian world. The discussions in Turkey highlight Ukraine’s broader strategy to build international security partnerships and reinforce diplomatic ties amid continued military pressure from Russia and evolving regional tensions.

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Meloni’s Gulf Visit Focuses on Energy Security and Regional Stability

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Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni began a surprise diplomatic tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, marking the first visit by a European Union leader to the Gulf since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran in February. During her stop in Jeddah, Meloni is expected to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with discussions centered on regional security and strengthening ties with Gulf partners facing rising tensions and Iranian attacks.

The visit aims to reassure Gulf allies while safeguarding Italy’s energy needs as fuel prices rise and supply disruptions grow. Italy relies significantly on the region for energy, with Qatari liquefied natural gas previously covering about 10% of its gas consumption and Middle Eastern oil accounting for roughly 12% of imports. Ongoing conflict has disrupted shipments, including suspended LNG deliveries due to instability around the Strait of Hormuz and damage to part of Qatar’s export capacity.

To offset potential shortages, Italy is expanding energy partnerships beyond the Gulf. Meloni recently visited Algeria to secure additional gas supplies and plans a future trip to Azerbaijan, another key supplier. Italy also expects LNG deliveries from the United States’ Golden Pass facility starting in June, as Rome works to diversify energy sources and maintain supply stability amid escalating geopolitical uncertainty.

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Uffizi Cyber-Attack Raises Concerns, Museum Denies Breach

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The Uffizi Galleries in Florence confirmed it was targeted by a cyber-attack but strongly denied that its core security systems or artworks were compromised. Reports suggested hackers accessed internal IT systems and sensitive operational data, but the museum insisted no damage or theft occurred.

According to media reports, attackers allegedly extracted information such as access codes, internal layouts, and surveillance details, and later issued a ransom demand. However, the Uffizi maintained that its security infrastructure is entirely internal and inaccessible from outside networks, rejecting claims that critical systems or passwords were breached.

The incident, which also affected sites like Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens, prompted precautionary measures including temporary relocation of valuables. The museum said these actions were part of ongoing upgrades and safety improvements, emphasizing that operations remain normal and no data or artworks were lost.

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Pope Leads Good Friday Prayers for War Victims and Migrant Children

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Pope Leo XIV led a solemn Good Friday service at Rome’s Colosseum, where thousands of Catholics gathered for the traditional Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) procession. The candle-lit ceremony included prayers for war orphans, deported migrant children, and victims of global conflicts. During the service, spiritual meditations emphasized accountability for world leaders, warning that their use of power—especially in matters of war and peace—would ultimately be judged by God.

The pope, the first American to hold the position, carried a wooden cross through the historic amphitheatre, stopping at intervals for readings from the Bible, reflections inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, and messages focused on social justice. The meditations highlighted suffering across the world, including refugees, victims of human trafficking, political prisoners, and those killed in war zones, while also drawing attention to children affected by harsh immigration policies.

Although no specific leaders were named, the themes reflected ongoing global tensions and humanitarian concerns. Pope Leo has previously voiced criticism of strict immigration measures, particularly in relation to their alignment with Church teachings. The Good Friday observance marks a key moment in the Christian calendar leading up to Easter Sunday, when the pope is expected to deliver a major message addressing international issues.

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French Court Allows Muslim Gathering to Proceed

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A major Muslim gathering in northern Paris will take place as scheduled after a French administrative court overturned a government order to ban it. Authorities had argued that the four-day Annual Encounter of Muslims of France posed a potential security risk, citing concerns that the event could become a target for terrorist attacks. However, organisers from the Muslims of France (MF) association challenged the decision, calling it a violation of fundamental freedoms, and secured a last-minute ruling in their favour just hours before the event’s planned opening.

In its decision, the court stated that the police had not provided sufficient evidence to justify the ban. Judges found no clear indication of threats such as counter-demonstrations or attacks by far-right groups, and they dismissed concerns about excessive strain on security forces. The organisers had already committed to implementing additional safety measures, further weakening the government’s argument. The event, which combines cultural, religious, and commercial activities, has historically attracted large crowds from across Europe but had not been held since 2019.

The controversy comes amid a broader political climate in France marked by heightened tensions and proposed new “anti-separatism” legislation targeting extremist ideologies. Officials argue that such measures are necessary to maintain public order and prevent radicalisation, while critics view them as restrictive and potentially discriminatory. The organisers’ legal team maintained that the attempted ban was unjustified and politically motivated, whereas government representatives insisted it was solely intended to ensure public safety.

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