Millions join Spain's first general strike in 14 years over housing

Millions of workers and tenants across Spain participated in a 24-hour general strike, the country's first in 14 years, to protest soaring housing prices. Demonstrators set up picket lines, blocked major roads with burning tires, and brought public transport to a near-standstill in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, with organizers reporting about 4 million participants. The nationwide stoppage reflects mounting anger over a housing market where properties are increasingly used as tourist rentals and speculative assets. Over the span of a decade, rents have risen by 80% while home costs have climbed by 63%, sparking widespread protests, school closures, and over 50 arrests during the labor actions.