The Spanish government has called for a snap election on 29 November after the Socialist minority led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez failed to pass essential housing reforms in Parliament.

Sanchez’s decision comes as opinion polls show his Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party trailing the centre‑right People’s Party, which many fear will seek a coalition with the far‑right Vox to form a majority.

In his announcement, Sanchez warned of a growing “extreme‑right wave” across Europe and reaffirmed his pledge that Spain would remain a global example of “peace, feminism and prosperity.”

The morning’s announcement has plunged Spanish politics into uncertainty, with many experts predicting a highly contested vote.

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