Spain is going through especially tough days. With thousands of acres devastated by fire, urgent evacuations, and the country mobilized to stop the destruction, what is happening outside our borders has sparked even more tension. One attitude in particular has caused deep unrest in public opinion.
While the wildfires keep advancing, the media spotlight has shifted to a figure who, far from cooperating or showing concern, remains silent. Criticism has not taken long to arrive, and many are wondering how it is possible that someone who was head of state for decades chooses indifference at a time like this.
An emergency that mobilizes the whole country
The wildfires affecting several autonomous communities have forced thousands of people to evacuate in record time. The extreme heat and wind have complicated firefighting efforts, which already involve both air and ground resources across the territory. The images of scorched areas and destroyed homes have shocked the entire country.
Authorities are working tirelessly to contain the fire's advance and protect the most vulnerable populations. The government has announced reinforcements and financial support for those affected, as well as constant coordination among emergency services, military, and healthcare personnel. The situation is critical and requires a solid institutional response.
Citizens have also stepped up: food, clothing, and supplies are being collected for those who have lost everything. Amid this wave of solidarity, attention is turning to those who represent national symbols, with the hope of seeing in them a gesture of closeness and support. However, one of those figures has been notably absent.
Juan Carlos's silence sparks outrage
Far from the drama his country is experiencing, the emeritus king Juan Carlos remains in Abu Dhabi. His absence and lack of public reaction have caused a strong wave of criticism, especially because he has not shown concern about the wildfires. Meanwhile, he has been seen enjoying activities such as regattas in Galicia during his occasional visits to Spain.
Media outlets and political analysts have described his attitude as disconnected and disloyal, not only to the country but also to the institution he still symbolically represents. A well-known columnist even pointed out that the emeritus "has lost all sense of reality" and that "he only brings further discredit to the monarchy." The words, harsh but widely shared, have ignited the national debate.
In addition, it has been recalled that Juan Carlos keeps his residence in a tax haven under the protection of his Emirati allies. Meanwhile, he is preparing controversial memoirs that could further damage the image of the Crown.
The contrast with Queen Sofía and King Felipe
Unlike Juan Carlos, Queen Sofía has shown active involvement with the victims. This very week, it has become known that she has donated 50,000 euros to organizations working directly with those affected by the wildfires. The gesture has been widely appreciated both in the media and on social media, where she has been praised for her discretion and commitment.
Meanwhile, King Felipe VI keeps especially involved in managing the crisis caused by the wildfires. He has recently met with UME commanders to closely follow the deployment and show his support for emergency teams. His behavior has been described as exemplary at a particularly sensitive time for the public.
At a time when Spain needs unity and institutional support, King Juan Carlos's attitude has caused confusion and outrage. While his son and the emeritus queen take firm steps in solidarity with the people, he remains absent. This new controversy reopens the debate about his lifetime title and the impact his figure continues to have on the institution's image.