The government of Spain has announced plans to reopen its embassy in Tehran, signaling a renewed diplomatic push following a recently agreed ceasefire between the United States and Iran.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares disclosed the decision on Thursday, stating that he had instructed Spain’s ambassador to Iran, Antonio Sánchez-Benedito, to return to Tehran and resume full diplomatic operations. The embassy had been temporarily closed on March 7 amid escalating tensions in the region.
According to Albares, the move reflects what he described as a “new situation” created by the two-week ceasefire agreement announced earlier this week. He emphasized that Spain’s decision is aimed at supporting diplomatic efforts and contributing to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
Speaking to journalists upon arrival at the Spanish Congress, Albares said he had already communicated the development to Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, during a phone conversation on Wednesday. He noted that reopening the embassy demonstrates Madrid’s commitment to engaging constructively in international efforts to stabilize the situation.
The Spanish minister also revealed that he has been actively consulting with regional partners as part of broader diplomatic outreach. He confirmed holding discussions with foreign ministers from Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Lebanon, underscoring Spain’s efforts to coordinate with key stakeholders across the Middle East.
In a separate call with Lebanon’s Foreign Minister, Youssef Raggi, Albares expressed strong concern over ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon. He described the attacks as “brutal and indiscriminate,” adding that they represent “a disgrace to the conscience of all humanity.” His remarks reflect growing international unease over the potential for the conflict to expand beyond its current scope.
Albares also addressed reports published by The Wall Street Journal suggesting that Washington may consider closing military bases in countries that have not supported its actions, including Spain and Germany. Responding to questions, the minister said he had no information confirming such plans.
He noted that bilateral discussions between Madrid and Washington regarding the use of strategic military facilities—specifically the Rota and Morón air bases—remain ongoing. According to Albares, both bases are currently operating “completely normally,” indicating no immediate disruption to cooperation between the two allies.
The diplomatic developments come in the wake of a two-week truce announced on Tuesday by the United States and Iran, aimed at paving the way for a more comprehensive agreement to end hostilities. The conflict, which began on February 28 with military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iran, has resulted in significant casualties, leaving many dead and wounded.
The ceasefire announcement followed a period of heightened tensions, during which Donald Trump repeatedly issued deadlines for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and agree to a deal, warning of severe consequences if those conditions were not met.
Spain’s decision to restore its diplomatic presence in Tehran is being viewed as part of a broader international effort to capitalize on the temporary pause in hostilities and push for a lasting peace agreement. Analysts say reopening embassies and maintaining diplomatic channels will be critical in sustaining dialogue and preventing further escalation.
As the ceasefire period unfolds, attention is expected to focus on whether diplomatic momentum can be maintained and translated into a long-term resolution to the conflict, with countries like Spain positioning themselves as active contributors to peace efforts in the region.
