Iran drew international attention after images showed ballistic missiles bound for Israel bearing labels that echoed anti-war remarks by Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez. Photographs released by Iranian media depicted members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps affixing stickers featuring Sánchez’s portrait and a quote describing the war as “illegal” and “inhuman.”
The markings appeared in both English and Persian, suggesting an intention to address audiences beyond Iran. Video of the launches also captured IRGC personnel chanting religious slogans as the missiles were fired.
Sánchez had publicly criticized military actions against Iran as unjustifiable and warned of the broader humanitarian consequences of escalation. Spain has taken a distinct European stance by opposing further escalation and is reported to have limited U.S. use of joint military bases — a move that drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who signaled possible economic repercussions.
The current conflict, which began on February 28, has intensified. Iran has warned it could target critical infrastructure across the Gulf if hostilities escalate, while the United States has threatened possible strikes on Iranian facilities should key maritime routes be disrupted. More than 2,000 deaths have been reported, and growing economic fallout has heightened fears of wider regional and international consequences.
Social media posts circulated widely, sharing images and clips that suggested a missile bore a “thank you Spain PM” message prior to launch. The incident has amplified diplomatic tensions and prompted renewed global concern over the conflict’s trajectory and civilian harm.
