Spain's prime minister-elect has insisted that he will pull troops out of Iraq unless the UN takes charge despite criticism from two US officials.
Earlier, the most senior Republican in the US Congress, Dennis Hastert, accused the Spanish people of appeasing terrorists.
And top US military official Gen Richard Myers, said that this was not a conflict where neutrality was an option.
The remarks came after Spain's Socialist party won a shock victory in Sunday's elections.
Do you agree with the Spanish prime minister-elect's proposals? Send us your comments.
Your comments:
It's amazing how US propaganda succeeded in equating the war in Iraq with the war against terrorism. They are not the same. Iraq had no ties to terrorism whatsoever before the war. None. Therefore, voting against the Iraq war is not the same as voting against the war on terrorism. Besides, 'appeasement' has worked quite well against terrorism in many countries, including in Spain, Sri Lanka and in the UK.
Stephan, London, UK
Unfortunately, the terrorists have won in Spain. What democracy is next to be hit during an election? The cowering French, Germans, and Belgians will certainly be spared. I am boycotting products produced in France and Germany and must now add Spain to that list.
Ron Fox, Oklahoma City, USA
I don't believe that the massive Socialist victory on Sunday was solely the result of Thursday's terrorist actions. The Spanish government decided - in spite of massive public protest - to join the US in the war in Iraq, and the people have now passed judgement on that decision. As for US Senator Hastert's accusations of 'appeasement', I read his true message as confirmation that the US only supports and respects democracy as long as the results of democratic decisions are in line with the United States' own policy. Mr Hastert needs to relearn the meaning of the word.
Anne-Lise Jensen, Roskilde, Demark
I think it is understandable that the Spanish people are afraid for terrorists these days and I don't blame people for their votes for Mr Zapatero. But I do blame Mr Zapatero: A person in his position must understand that a Spanish escape from Iraq, more or less, will be seen as an encouragement for terrorists to kill more innocent people in countries who keep their troops in Iraq.
Fredrik Nilsson, Huskvarna, Sweden
It is not only the terrorist attacks that made a turning point. There are many other questions. Don't misunderstand social Spanish reality. A change of government isn't wrong. I'm sure the world will be ruled a little better from now.
Nicolau, Barcelona, Spain
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Tolerance, I believe, may be the thing that is missing
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To all those from Spain - well done for casting your vote, whatever it was. To everyone else keep quiet. What has it got to do with you? Want to know why the world is in the state it's in? Take an hour or two and read the whole page. Tolerance, I believe, may be the thing that is missing.
Andy Harrison, Sandbach, UK
I am very disappointed with the results. I do not trust Zapatero and his team. He is not respected by his team members and this is going to divide Spain even more. We will all suffer.
Anonimo, Madrid, Spain
This is not at all a victory for terrorism. It is a victory for true democracy. The infamous manipulation of information about the bombings was just the last straw. We were tired of Aznar's autocracy.
Paula, Barcelona, Spain
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I believe Mr Zapatero will bring a healthy change to Spain as part of Europe and I am sure he will not depart from the fight against terrorism
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I live in London but I am from Madrid. My heart is broken not as a Spaniard but as a citizen of the world. I changed my vote away from PP many months ago. Some polls say PP was going to lose despite the terrorist attacks. I agree. I had already changed my vote as many others had too. Spain has chosen a healthy change towards democracy and tolerance. The terrorists did not change a democratic election. They just proved once again that Mr Aznar government is not what we want. We are against terrorism. I believe Mr Zapatero will bring a healthy change to Spain as part of Europe and I am sure he will not depart from the fight against terrorism. He has proved to be a gentleman in his opposition to PP. He will just represent Spain better.
Marina Solana, London
Just when it seemed that the never-ending chain of action and reaction was going to go on for a long time to come, the Spanish peoples' courageous vote holds out a ray of hope.
Husain, New Delhi, India
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Simply because in the last eight years the Spanish government has done an amazing job both in economic and social terms for our people
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We have to put this is context. If the horrific events of last Thursday never happened, there is a very high probability that the Popular Party would have won again in Spain's elections as all the poles were predicting. Why? Simply because in the last eight years the Spanish government has done an amazing job both in economic and social terms for our people. I strongly support Aznar even though I regret his decision to join Bush in Iraq (his major mistake). That, followed by a rushed, emotional vote may put in jeopardy all that had been achieved.
Jorge Vilches, Madrid, Spain
1032 years ago the Arabs took over Spain from its native inhabitants. History has a knack of repeating itself.
Carlos Melgar, Alicante, Spain
Mr Zapatero has taken a clear line of action as per the will of vast majority of the Spanish. This is what democracy is all about. One has to see the fight against terrorism with a different angle than Bush's vision. Mr Zapatero has shown that courage. Let's hope he takes solid steps to kerb terrorism of all kinds.
Kashif, London
The people of Singapore feel the same as the Spanish. Truth be told we do not want this war and we were forced into this war because of our governments. I do not think the new Spanish position is an appeasement to terror; instead it is a true reflection of what the Spanish peoples always had, but were not able to demonstrate until now.
Winston Neo, Singapore
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My vote was decided a while ago, so please don't get confused!
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Aznar wanted to become big by supporting what's considered an illegitimate war, but clearly paid no attention to his domestic issues, and therefore his party ends up with no reward. My vote was decided a while ago, so please don't get confused!
Frank Gomez, Alicante, Spain
The Spanish people voted for the socialist, to bring peace in this world of terrorism. The change I think was not implicated much by last weeks bombing. The previous government sent troops to Iraq without the consent of its people. So the people of Spain now want a new idea to bring peace. Welcome on board the socialist - fulfil your promises.
Oluoch, Rome, Italy
Terrorism is not only putting bombs on a train. Terrorism is also using the power to spread the seeds of hate and intolerance among the nations, the power to go to a war that all the Spaniards condemned. Popular Party, you've dug your own grave. It was your war, but the dead are ours.
M Carmen, Barcelona, Spain
Kudos to the people of Spain, for not allowing political manipulation. This is a good case study for critical thinking and bright electorate. I sense the British, Italian, Australian, Polish, Danish and American people will show their mental astuteness next by voting for change of leadership in their respective countries. The world has seen enough bloodshed already...
Ladi, Lagos, Nigeria
The Spanish held a democratic election in which they turned out a government which had misled them on a number of occasions, and elected a government which promised transparency and truth. The former government seems to have misjudged the resolve of their own people to make such judgements.
Lydia York, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
We in Spain have been fighting terrorism since many years ago, and we know that Bush's methods and illegal wars favour and increase terrorism by weakening international law. We want to fight terrorism by reinforcing international law, working with the UN, and promoting international co-operation, human rights and democracy. That's the long but only way.
Juan M Gonzalez, Pamplona, Spain
It is unfortunate that people have to choose between two wrongs. On the one extreme is barbarism in the name of Islam that does not mind killing innocent people regardless of age, gender, religion, and nationality. On the other hand is President Bush's methods and policies that have not found any supporters outside of the United States. Perhaps the vote for change in Spain is due to this unfortunate choice that people have to make. But by no stretch of imagination should this vote for change should be treated as a victory of barbarism. Opposing president Bush is not tantamount to supporting terrorism.
Neeraj Bhatnagar, CA USA
To all those who think Spain has bowed to terrorists - let's get one thing straight. The war on terrorism has nothing to do with the illegal invasion of Iraq. The people of Spain are smart enough to vote out a government that confused the two issues, and bring in one that will honestly fight terrorism. The world does not want any more oil wars and humiliation of third world counties. That will only increase terrorism. Why is it so hard to understand?
Anaparthi Gopalam, India
We voted not with fear but with anger against the conservative government which involved us in a war against our will and tried to manipulate the information about the terrorist attack to make us believe it was caused by Eta. Besides, the polls said the difference between the conservative and the socialists was little and that there was a majority of people who wanted a change. There was a 20 percent of undecided vote. Sure, the monstrous attack by the terrorists made some of the undecided vote in favour of the socialists but please, do not think the reason for the socialist victory was fear. We were simply fed up with lies.
Rafael, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
Yeah, I'm surprised!!! It's disgusting! I can't believe what a travesty of an election it has been. Basically, the Spanish voters have buckled under pressure... they choked before the elections. Instead of focusing their anger at the killers they went after Aznar. More bombings will follow, no doubt. The Islamic terrorists have found a way to hit the West. You have to give it to al-Qaeda, for the first time they have toppled a Western government!
Trevor, Kent, UK
The result of the Spanish elections will be interpreted by each group however it wants to. It can be seen as a vote against the outgoing Spanish government and its policies, it can be seen as a vote against world leaders' trend to ignore the will of the people. We can be sure it will strengthen the resolve of the terrorists. One important fact remains: whilst the actions of the terrorists are deplorable in every sense, they are "punishing" the West for the invasion of Iraq. Through the peaceful power of democracy this is also what the Spanish population have done.
Colin Silvester, Tokyo, Japan
Congratulations to Mr Zapatero who has showed bravery in standing up to Bush and Blair. Withdrawing the troops is the right thing to do, but what a tragic shame the events of March 11 can not be reversed. In the last week, we have witnessed fundamentalist retaliation and democracy in their full power. Let's hope Blair has the sense to heed the warning.
Ben Davies, Barcelona, Spain
A bunch of whiners claiming that the terrorists have won as a result of the socialist victory in Spain. So what? This may be the right approach in combating terrorism - give them some dubious wins like this. Remember they haven't won a single real war against the west in more than a century. They have much less self-esteem than most pet animals. Therefore, there is no harm in throwing some bread-crumbs to them so they may leave us alone at least for a period of time while they wallow on a hollow victory such as this.
Peter Sault, Montreal, Canada
Polls are not infallible and should not be regarded as such. If they were then there would not be any need to vote, would there? It is as important for the rest of the world to respect Spain's democratic outcome as it is to have solidarity in the fight against terrorism. It's sad that so many believe that the issue of terrorism should be the all-important factor on which governments are elected.
J. Delisser, NY, USA
Well done Spain for choosing peace over war. The previous PM did not listen to the Spanish people. Come on UK elections.
A Rana, London, UK
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Maybe the Spanish people are the first nation to take a different route to combating terrorism
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Terrorism needs to be fought on home ground as that is where the terrorists are! The Spanish people can obviously see the logic in this, when will Bush and Blair see logic?
Max Richards, England
To call the Spanish people cowards, brave or to apply any form of definition is both trite and pointless. The victory in the election was for democracy. When the elected officials ignore 90% of their electorate, surely defeat is the only valid response of a democratic vote. Focus on the issues, not the emotions!
Fraser, Marbella, Spain
So many people here think that this will be a positive sign for terrorists and they have achieved their goals. I think they achieved that when the US started this war on terrorism instead of reflecting on the core issues and even consider any peaceful solution. So maybe the Spanish people are the first nation to take a different route to combating terrorism - much like Canada did, by not taking part in Iraq war!
John, Canada
Like in any other situation when we are angry we take decisions that we'll regret. I think that the Spanish people did not vote for the Socialist Party, but against Aznar. I think that the election should have been postponed for at least one week.
David Ibañez, Guadalajara Jalisco, Mexico
Thanks to the Spanish people for the change of the government. If you want to fight terrorism, stay away from it. Parks, Gaborone, Botswana
This is definitely a sign that changes will happen when the elections take place in the UK and the United States.
JJ, California
Frustration. This is the state of society today. No matter what democratic politicians do, they cannot defeat tyranny without becoming tyrants themselves; to appease terrorism as the Spanish have done is to become an accessory to the will of tyrants. If the Spanish allow themselves to be governed by the will of tyrants, then they have lost the very thing that they try to protect: the liberty of self determination. Now they are as sheep... subordinate to wolves.
Des Cousins, Toronto Canada
The terror attacks should have galvanized the Spaniards "esprit de corps." Instead they have chosen a leader who leads by polls, rather than better judgment. 9/11 happened because Clinton led by "polls" instead of paying close attention to terror warnings. Spain needs a brave and strong leader like Mr. Aznar, not one that runs away from their international commitments and responsibilities. I trust Mr. Zapatero will see the light once he has entered office and make the right decision and not cower in fear. Zapatero won, but I am afraid that by doing so, the terrorists also won.
Brad, Kenosha, USA
How can he say in one breath he will remove the troops from Iraq and then say his priority is to fight terrorism? You would think after all these years of enduring terrorist strikes throughout Europe that most people would try anything they could to put a stop to it. However, when you are a politician it is easy to promise on something you can never deliver. It's time to wake up and clear out the "ROT".
Jim Donovan, Dartmouth, Canada
I applaud the Spanish people. I do believe that the rush to blame the Basques (which a huge percent of the population did not believe) was powerfully instrumental in the downfall of Aznar... One should not manipulate national security for political gain. That sentiment coupled with the fact that 90% of the Spanish people were totally against the Iraq war, it is absolutely no surprise that the Aznar was defeated.
Maria, FL, USA
We were led to believe that Spain is a democracy yet, despite 90% of its citizens opposing the invasion of Iraq, Aznar ignored them and trotted after Bush and Blair. Now he has paid the price. Let us hope he is only the first and that the others will now follow him.
Phil Linehan, Mexico
We are bound by our common democratic traditions to accept the peoples' will, and we would not want it any other way. Sadly, the sick minds of the terrorists will probably take it as a sign that they can bomb people into doing what they want. Well, we will just have to grit our teeth and prove otherwise.
Steve Hughes, London. England
Democracy is the best political system known to the mankind. But does it mean the people's choice is always right? I am not going to list examples of when it turned out badly in order to avoid false analogies. The undisputed fact is that the horrible terrorist attack changed the outcome of the elections in Spain. I do hope that the People of UK will be able to cast their vote without the written in blood orders by murderous fanatics.
Yuri, Washington, USA
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It's surely the case that the bombings have changed the outcome
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This is an extremely worrying turn of events. If the unpopularity of the Iraq war was the reason for voting out the government, then why did the opinion polls prior to the bombings point to a government victory? It's surely the case that the bombings have changed the outcome and this will give al-Qaeda a clear signal that terrorism works.
Declan, UK
Once again people with no knowledge of history are placing the world in danger by thinking that isolation from terrorists will save them. It takes courage to face terror head-on, and people who support the Socialists are too weak and will find out the hard way that toughness and a common will are the only solution.
James Carter, Buffalo, NY, USA
Spain voted for change because Aznar had got to believe he was Spain. The way he lied to and manipulated the people, the media, the foreign correspondents, etc. about who had carried out Thursday's attacks was just the straw that broke the camel's back. For the last four years he refused to listen. Well, now it will be us who will not have to listen to him. Good riddance!
Enrique González Sardinero, Zaragoza, Spain
If the Spanish people voted to rebuke their government for supporting an unjust war, then that is democracy in practise. I am troubled, though, by this notion that the recent bombings were somehow the result of Spanish support for the Iraq war. If, as most Spaniards correctly believe, the war in Iraq had nothing to do with the war against al-Qaeda, does it not also follow that al-Qaeda has no basis to claim that the attacks were retaliation for the Iraq war? Let us recognize the attacks for what they were: a brilliant divide-and-conquer ploy... that worked.
Peter, Ireland
Spain's history is filled with extreme changes, from dictatorships to the leftist coalition republic, to the fascist revolt in the Spanish Civil War. This should come as no surprise, though I wouldn't put too much emphasis on the bombings, rather, the decision to support the Bush Administration's war in Iraq while 90 percent of the Spanish population was against is a much more reasonable explanation as to the ousting of the Popular Party.
Alexander Lynch, St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
Seems to me the vote in Spain is showing the people of the world are increasingly taking the attitude of apathy towards terrorism instead of engagement. Rather than stand and fight against them, they would rather hide and not make waves. The terrorists have won today. Spain did exactly what the terrorists wanted, they used fear and intimidation to manipulate the country. And it worked. Sad day.
Dan, Southeast FL, USA
The Spanish people proved that they would not be deceived by the blame-game that the Jose Maria Aznar government tried to play just before the elections. The Spaniards sent a clear message of their awareness of what kind of adventurous policies have caused the unspeakable brutal attacks.
Moises, USA
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Is it so difficult to understand that we were just fed up of Mr. Aznar
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How can anybody name our election as "cowardly act"? Don't you know that, unfortunately, we are very well accustomed to terrorism in Spain? Is it so difficult to understand that we were just fed up of Mr. Aznar for his overbearing style and his indifference for the citizen requests?
Laura, Barcelona, Spain
If the free people of Spain and the EU are willing to comply with terrorists' wishes, the democracies of the West will fall. It's only a matter of time. The sentiments posted on this board display a gross ignorance of the Arab Islamists' desire for world domination. Now they can control elections; tomorrow, your personal freedoms will fade. I hope your women will embrace the dignities with which Islamic governments view them, because the slide down that slope has begun.
Craig, Colorado, USA
It's true a nation can be bombed into submission, even to the extent that a government is ousted. What's that other popular phrase for it... regime change? Fortunately, the Spanish are not known for their submissiveness and it's logical to deduce that they were simply exercising their democratic right and free will to vote.
As for predictions of more bombings, of course! But not because of the Madrid bombs and the Spanish elections. The terrorists, wherever they were, were absolutely delighted when the US went to war. More US/first world led violence against large numbers of desperate people, more willing recruits for Al Qaeda and the like. And on and on and on.
Nicole, US
People from America and from over thirty countries that are working together with the Iraqi people to bring peace to their land. Forgive us
José Luis, Madrid (Spain)
The terrorists have scored a great victory today in their effort to destabilise governments attempting to promote stability and democracy. They have now found that they have a means which appears to work to overthrow such governments, and they will not hesitate to use it in the future against any western democracy which opposes them. We will see much more of this.
Jamie, New Hartford, CT, USA
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It seems that Zapatero's "systematic fight against terrorism of all kinds" means surrendering in the first round
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Spain has only known democracy since 1975 and many Spaniards still don't understand what it means - that whilst it grants privileges it also demands responsibility. They don't realise that if you give in to the bully, the bully will simply increase his demands. Yesterday was a disaster for Spanish democracy, and I am deeply saddened. It seems that Zapatero's "systematic fight against terrorism of all kinds" means surrendering in the first round.
Ed Wilcox, Malaga Spain
The terrorists did not win. The Spanish people and democracy won. They were promised, along with the rest of us, that the Bush/Blair/Aznar policies would make the world a safer place. They haven't, so the Spanish people used their democratic right to remove those that made such promises.
Tim, Guidford, UK
I also went out on the streets on Friday in respect for the victims and their families, but the terrorists wanted the PP party out off their way because they were getting rid of the terrorists. Let me remind you that ETA were planning to bomb Chamartin Station Madrid on New Year's Eve, which would have killed as much people as the attack on the 11th March. They said they were going to attack before the elections and said it was going to be a massive attack.
Laura, Madrid Spain
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Are you saying you are pleased to see the back of a government that tried to bring freedom and democracy to the Iraqi people?
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A few questions for those applauding the result of the Spanish General Election I would ask you this: Are you saying you are pleased to see the back of a government that tried to bring freedom and democracy to the Iraqi people? Does the fear of terrorist bombing render you indifferent to the human rights of your fellow man in the Middle East? How exactly would you remove oppressive Middle Eastern dictators and give their people democratic choice?
Anonymous., UK
The terrorists have not won. Common Sense has. You cannot combat terrorism by war - you only produce more people with hatred against the West and more reason to join terrorist organisations. Put yourselves in the shoes of a man in Iraq whose family has been killed. Will he look on the US as saviours? Anyone who thinks the war against terrorism will work is short-sighted. Let's hope more people around the world are brave and do as the Spanish do.
Carl, Bristol, UK
I don't know enough about Spanish domestic affairs but if they think this vote will somehow inoculate them from further attacks I fear they are mistaken, after all as a Hezbollah leader famously said "We are fighting to eliminate you".
Stan, Expat
I am not in the least surprised by the result. It was inconceivable that ETA was responsible for Thursday's atrocity and yet Aznar was anxious to pin it on the Basques to disguise a disastrous foreign policy which has now had devastating consequences for Western Europe. It is now time for Spain and Europe to break its allegiance with the Bush administration.
Dominic Jones, Bristol
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I am appalled that the Spanish have been so fickle in laying the blame of the outrage on the outgoing government
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If it was al-Qaeda who carried out the atrocity in Madrid then they have certainly won a victory over democracy. I am appalled that the Spanish have been so fickle in laying the blame of the outrage on the outgoing government. The Spanish must get it into their heads that this terrorism cannot be defeated by not standing up to it and doing nothing. The only man in Spain who deserves admiration is ex-PM Aznar. To those who voted for the Socialist party as a result of the terrorist attack: shame on you.
Ed Hollinshead, UK
A major contributing factor as to why Aznar's government lost was not the bombs and deaths per se (although that clearly was important) but Aznar's handling of the issue with a lack of transparency over who the culprits were. If the then government had clearly stated that they did not know who the culprits were but were investigating both the local terrorist group, ETA AND another, foreign terrorist group, the election results would have most likely been very different. The international community shouldn't ignore the fact that the "regime change" was partly (mostly?) due to its misleading handling of the matter.
JS, Barcelona, Spain
My partner is Spanish and fully expected a PP win. This result is a knee jerk reaction to last weeks attack and its aftermath. We had planned to visit London several times over the next few months. There is no way we intend to put ourselves in London prior to next years election. Whilst I salute the bravery of those involved in last weeks rescue attempts, I and my partner believe Spain will pay for their electoral mistake over the coming years. Rightly or wrongly, terrorists the world over will be encouraged by this result.
Andy, Isle Of Man
11 million people out on the streets of Spain in a show of defiance last week: hardly, like some have suggested here, an act of cowardice or an indication of giving in to terror. The majority of the public in Spain were against the war, as they were in the UK. Seems to me that one of the reasons for a change of government is that the Spanish people have taken the opportunity of an election to finally get themselves heard over the lies and propaganda that Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, Blair et al have been peddling ever since September 11th.
Alfie, Monmouth, UK
All the people who argue that a change of government is a 'victory for the terrorists' scare me. Will Bush and Blair use this reasoning to quash opposition voices in the upcoming elections? The terrorists have really won if you vote for a party you disagree with. A government which is against the war in Iraq is not necessarily one that supports the terrorists.
Spencer, Littleborough, UK
Whether it is correct for al-Qaeda to believe it or not, they'll see this as a sign that if they bomb European cities just before an election, they can manipulate the outcome. Europeans should be careful when election time comes around in their countries - they will almost certainly be next!
Miguel, California, USA
The Spanish may well have voted for peace but I seriously doubt whether they or the rest of the Western Democratic World will get any mercy from fanatical terrorism. Let's not forget that the September 11th atrocities predate the latest Iraq War and I see no evidence that Islamic Terrorists are seeking reconciliation with the West. I fear that terrorists around the World will make a connection between the murders in Madrid and the swing in voting in the Spanish election. As a result I think we can expect further attacks and more innocent lives will be lost.
Rob, Leeds, UK
I am surprised how many posters believe opinion polls! This is not the first time that an election result has contradicted the polls. And why should this be seen as a good or bad result for the terrorists? We neither know nor care what their objectives are.
Colin, Aberdeen, UK
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This is what all the wars on Iraq and Terrorism are about - Democracy
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Whether people like the results or not, they are the results of a Democratic vote. That is the fundamental ingredient in a Democracy that the people vote.
This is what all the wars on Iraq and Terrorism are about - Democracy. The Spanish people have democratically made their choice, it is not for anyone else to judge them.
Anonymous
While my heart goes out to those who lost loved ones, I think the Spanish people has told the world that having allies means nothing in today's world. I hope US law makers listen well and stop funding, trading and supporting other countries on the planet.
Marlene Cushing, Waterville, USA
Bravo to the Spaniards. Your courage, bravery and unity in the face of great national disaster is profound. My heart breaks for you. I will long admire your nation for your eloquent response to your deep grief. My admiration is boundless for your courage to change your government and to say a resounding "NO" to mistaken policies. I only hope we Americans can be so brave in November.
Maureen Callahan, Philadelphia, USA
Anyone who is suddenly afraid that violence and inciting fear have now swayed the selection of leadership in Spain, all I say is: now you may be getting some idea what it is like to live in many parts of the world, especially the Middle East and Latin America, and to know it is hopeless to dream of self-determination as long as the government you would choose for yourselves is one disliked by U.S. government and corporations.
Maleeha Rizwy, St. Paul, MN, USA
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Zapatero has been saying for months that if he was elected, he would pull troops out of Iraq
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First of all, forgive me for my poor English. As I see it from my country, Zapatero was not elected because of the terrorist attacks. I agree that that fact influenced some people. But there were a lot more factors to vote for the socialists. Aznar did incredibly bad things for some people: going to the war in Iraq, manipulating information, hiding the bad consequences of the accident of the Prestige in Galicia, criminalizing the nationalisms in Catalonia and Euskadi, etc, etc. Moreover, Zapatero has been saying for months that if he was elected, he would pull troops out of Iraq. It was not because of the attacks in Madrid that Zapatero decided it.
Laura, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
This is a victory for democracy and European Unity. Leaders who ignore their electorate or try to deceive them do so at their peril. Democracy does not begin and end on polling day. Governments have to listen to the people throughout their term and represent their people truthfully in international matters. Blair and Berlusconi should expect the same fate. We Europeans cannot vote Bush out but we can dismantle his so-called 'coalition' and weaken his position considerably.
David, London, UK
I'm proud of being part of this country, that choose peace instead of economy.
Cristina Delgado, Burgos - Spain
This shows again that America and Americans cannot rely on Europeans. Europeans are just thin skinned and thin blooded!
S. G., NYC
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Zapareto's claims that he will continue the fight against terrorism are naive and hollow
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al-Qaeda has proved to itself that it can manipulate Western elections in its favour. Now Islamicists will have even less respect for Democracy and will not fear Western resolve. Zapareto's claims that he will continue the fight against terrorism are naive and hollow. We are constantly told over here that Europeans, having lived with real terrorism longer than we have understand it better than we do. I will never believe this.
Mr. Carr, Boston, USA
Divide and conquer is a political and military cliché: Western democracy cannot afford to allow it to become a winning formula for terrorism. The comments of Mr Zapatero will delight those who are seeking to destroy the way of life for which millions died 60 years ago. Their sacrifice, and the deaths of 200 so barbarously last week demand a strength that Mr Zapatero seems lacking.
Paul Oliver, Croydon, UK
This outcome is horrendous and nothing less than a complete victory for terrorism. They achieved everything they wanted. We will see more of this.
Eric Dussell, Deering, USA
With the announced pull-out from Iraq of the Spanish troops, reason has returned to Spanish politics. One only hopes that no more such tragedies will occur until others see the light. The occupation of Iraq is about oil, not about concerns for human rights. If you don't believe that, look at Guantanamo.
Roland E. Staehli, Switzerland
While I cannot claim a strong opinion as to which candidate deserved to win the election, it is terribly unfortunate that the terrorists of this world will now have good reason to believe that their actions can negatively influence elections. I predict this will not be the last election week major terrorist act in the democratic world - all nations must somehow improve security without compromising freedom or the terrorists really will have won!
Errol Collinson, Victoria, B.C. Canada
The peoples of Spain seem to have voted mainly on instinct and impulse, hence electing a more inward-looking and protective PM. Worst, this is brought about by terrorists. Is this going to become a trend? Where clear majorities vanish overnight just because of a terrorist act? That isn't democracy, it's anger speaking and the government was wrong to continue with elections at such an emotional time!
Stefan Episkopou, Manchester, UK
The Spanish have sent a message to the terrorists that their faith in democracy is alive and well, with a huge turnout. They have also sent a message to the governments of the world that if you ignore the voice of 90% of the public and drag the country into a war that has made them less safe from terrorism for fabricated reasons (WMD, anyone?), then you can't expect re-election. Let this make it clear to the governments of Europe that wars should be fought in the best interests of their citizens, not to keep in Bush's good books.
AB, London, UK
I hope that the new Spanish government does not pull troops out of Iraq. That will be a knee-jerk reaction that directly rewards terrorism. This will just make Spain and the rest of the western world a bigger target.
David Woolf, Birmingham, UK
If opinion polls were to be believed, the conservatives in Spain were the favourites to return to power before the bombings of Madrid. Now we see that the voters of Spain have punished the government and voted for conservatives, in doing so they have allowed al-Qaeda terrorists to have a significant say in democratic process of Spain.
George A, London England
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The message to potential terrorists is clear - you can use mass murder to manipulate electoral results
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It is claimed that the Spanish election results were not a victory for terrorism, but were instead a popular victory over a lying and manipulative government, but strangely the opinion polls strongly predicted the opposite result before the bombs went off in Madrid. The message to potential terrorists is clear - you can use mass murder to manipulate electoral results and remove a government hostile to your perceived interests. I wonder how many more such outrages the voters of Spain have bequeathed us?
Dave, Oxford, UK
I am completely outraged to hear James McManus (below) from the USA call us Spaniards cowards. First, you have proven you have no idea why we have decided to oust our government. Second, I am very proud of the bravery shown by my fellow citizens who massively took to the streets last Friday to defy the terrorist attack, not fearing the very real possibility of more bombings by the terrorists who are still here hidden among us. You have no idea about the situation in our country, so please shut up. I live in Madrid, I have seen horror too close last Thursday.
J.B.F., Madrid, Spain
The people of Spain and have chosen to replace the government. There is no doubt that the bombing in Madrid that occurred days before the election has had a major effect on the result. But it is not right to criticize the result as opportunistic or unprincipled. In any democracy the view of the people is supreme. The great majority of Spaniards were against their country getting involved and supporting the invasion of Iraq. In addition the Spanish government tried to blame ETA for the bombing in Madrid - possibly to gain politically. Also, the main cause of the socialist victory is the greater mobilization of their voters more than the loss of votes by the conservatives. If Spain goes ahead and pulls out their troops it shows that the people who do not agree with the government have a real choice and that is good for the democracy.
Sigmund, Philadelphia US
If the Socialist Party had been ahead in the polls before the bombing because the PP hadn't listened to the people then yes it would be a victory for democracy. But this was not the case. After the bombing, people decided to vote the other way. Anyone who argues that this is a victory for terrorism is being very naive.
John, Leeds, England
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It was an emotionally based vote
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It was an emotionally based vote, no time for reflection, no time to watch back at the positive achievements of the Aznar government.
F. Marinelli, Ancona, Italy
No matter what your views on the rights or wrongs of Spain's involvement in Iraq, the results of the Spanish election followed by the announcement that they are to withdraw their troops from Iraq can only be seen as a bad thing. Is this the first time that a terrorist attack has achieved any of it's aims?
Richard, Worthing, England
I cannot help but believe that the courageous Spanish people were not so much intimidated by the attack, as they were shocked by the deaths that corresponded to the deaths in Iraq. They said "enough death of innocents." No, they did not give in to terrorists, they chose not to participate anymore in the endless cycle. And they are tired of their government not listening to them. Who cares what Al-Qaeda brags, enough of Bush and Blair and their brags. They bragged they forced Libya to knuckle under. So what is different?
KC, USA
4% more Spanish voters chose an anti-war faction over a pro-war faction. Hardly a landslide political statement. As per usual, the anti-American lobby will crow over the tragic events in Madrid, manipulating them to suit their own agendas (yes, they're just as adept at doing that as everyone else - particularly as they don't have to make decisions or take responsibility for anything). In the meantime, Spanish public opinion will have to face the fact that if you're going live in the world, you have to live in it. Last point, if you let bombs make your decisions, the bombers win.
Matt, London
So, Spain joins the ranks of countries who are not prepared to fight for the freedom of nations and individuals outside of their own borders no matter what the level of slaughter. Solidarity is what is needed! If France hadn't adopted its stance of "We won't support ANY UN resolution which means entering Iraq no matter how inhumane and world threatening they become" the coalition would have waited for UN support before progressing with dealing with the Iraq problem. France's action was cowardly and shameful... as is Spain's action in this situation. Every nation who supports what is happening in Iraq can now expect its citizens to be murdered wholesale off the back of this success.
Christopher Smith, Hertfordshire, UK
Spain spoke eloquently against terror through it's demonstration on Friday. It spoke eloquently against lies and dissembling by sacking it's right wing government on Sunday. Spain is the first nation to express it's view in this way. It will not be the last.
Malcolm , Southport, UK
I think many comments here are too focus on the Iraq war, and these are not the only issues here. Before the bombs there was already a strong desire of change in Spanish people. I don't think people voted in fear of foreign terrorism at all. I even think the government could have won have they dealt with this terrible event more sincerely.
Ildefonso Cases, Madrid, Spain
Congratulations to the people of Spain for getting rid of a pro-war government. If the main opposition party in this country was anti-war then maybe we would be changing our next year too! As it stands, we have nothing to gain (and plenty to lose) by changing over.
Chris Turner, Kingston, UK
I am very concerned that the likes of Al-Qaeda and would-be terrorists around Europe and the world will see the election result as validation of their methods. Would the result have been the same without the Madrid bombing? We will never know. We do know that Mr Zapatero's party won by a small percentage, but if the terrorist attack helped cause a swing by just a few percent then we all have something to be worried about. Fortunately in the UK both our main parties were, and are, supportive of the war in Iraq.
Matt, Birmingham, England
This is not a victory for terrorism, it is a victory who try to use the fear of terrorism for political ends. The PP blamed ETA to scare the Spanish electorate into voting for them. They saw through this and threw them out. Bush should take note.
Michael Scanlan, Glasgow, Scotland
Spain needed a change. The terrorist attacks just gave some people the strength they need it to go and vote. But before that horrible day, the Spanish people were not happy with Aznar government. There are several reasons - like the Prestige ship disaster, reducing the amount of money given to State Education, high house prices, not increasing Health and Social Services funding, and going to war when most of the Spanish people didn't want to. All these, and some others, are the reasons why Spanish people has decided to change. I am not surprised about the election results, I would be surprised if it was the other way round.
Josefina Segura, Alicante Spain
First, I would like to say that my most heartfelt sorrow goes out to the people of Spain. As someone who was personally affected by the 9/11 tragedy, I am keenly aware of what the Spanish people are going through. I would also like to say that I don't condone the Aznar government's reaction to the bombings. I also hope that the vote to change doesn't give terrorists reason to believe they can terrorize Spain and any other country into changing governments any time they please. It is one thing to criticize actions taken by someone, but it is another thing to go to far as to give terrorists another reason to believe in what they are doing.
Michael Cipriani, New York, NY USA
This is a victory not for terror, but for democracy. The catalyst may have been the terrible bombings themselves or the executive's cynical attempt to apportion blame before the facts were known. The real cause, though, was the blatant disregard shown by the government for the popular will. The people of Spain have sent a resounding reminder to democratic governments everywhere that they are elected to serve their people.
Mark Kambites, Ottawa, Canada
Terrorists are rejoicing, Spain has proven that the tactics of hate and destruction work. What will the terrorists want you to do next time Spain? Will capitulation and appeasement make you safe?
Christopher Kohl, Denver, USA
I am surprised and relieved that someone succeeded in saying "enough" and "we are not pawns." The people of Spain have chosen to break the cycle of violence. They refuse to follow Bush and Blair. They say they will follow the UN and a democratic process. This is Democracy in action.
Ava F, Seattle USA
If, as so many posts suggest, this result was down to the war itself why was Aznar in the lead of the polls until last week? The result was pure and simple a backlash to the horror and revolution of the Madrid bombings. The fact remains however justifiable Zapatero may be politically on other issues the withdrawal of Spanish troops has made targets of all innocent populations of other countries that supported the war.
Mark G, Evesham, UK
Those who claim this to be a victory for terrorism are merely highlighting their personal disdain for democracy, we shall know to read between the lines when these same people make the case for the next round of totalitarian 'anti terrorism' laws. Bravo Spain!
Mark, London
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This counts for nothing today, as we all wait to see how Zapatero will take Spain forward
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I think José Maria Aznar was in a no win situation. He made a big decision to back the US led invasion of Iraq, under severe pressure from Bush and Blair, and now it has cost his PP party dearly. There is no doubt in the four years I have been in Spain, the country has prospered and many jobs have been created, but this counts for nothing today, as we all wait to see how Zapatero will take Spain forward.
Duncan Smith, Valencia, Spain
Is Mr ZP fit for the job? Why try to fix an engine that is working fine?
Julian Carrera, Madrid, Spain.
I don't see this as a victory for terrorism. It's a huge victory for democracy, the majority of the population didn't agree with the Iraq occupation so they voted against the people who did. It fully demonstrates the importance of using your vote. I'm very proud of Spain right now.
AP, Scotland
It is a victory for people who believe in peace! Let's follow up the success.
Chan Chow Wah, Singapore
I have mixed emotions - I am pleased that the Spanish people have made a statement against Bush and the Iraq war. On the other hand, I am worried that this sends a message that terrorists can truly affect the democratic process.
William, Dallas, Texas
Democracy is still alive in Europe - start sweating Tony. It's your turn next.
Paul, UK
My God, what have they done? You must realize this has nothing to do with the war in Iraq. This is very simply a validation of terrorism as a political tool. We are all less safe today because the Spanish people voted out of fear. This is a horrible outcome.
David, Pittsburgh, USA
Terrorism and the massively unpopular war is just one of the issues that won the election for the Socialists. Others were the mishandling and dishonesty surrounding the Prestige oil spill, the fact that property prices have rocketed while salaries have stagnated at a pathetically low level, that the birth-rate has plummeted because two-income households cannot afford to have a child.
José, Barcelona, Spain
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I have the deepest admiration for the Spanish voters
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Surprised? Delighted! I have the deepest admiration for the Spanish voters who, so very unlike my own country, have courageously and intelligently deconstructed the fear-mongering that this "alliance of the willing" uses to make its agenda prevail.
Diederik, Amsterdam, Netherlands
We are not surprised. We were fed up of so many omnipotence, and indifference towards citizens. It is time to begin to be humble and to the hearing and to the dialogue. This is a democracy.
Jose Luis, Barcelona, Catalonia
The main reason is that the People's Party was not listening to the people of Spain. And they tried to lie when the terrorists attacked the trains instead of telling the people honestly. They tried to buy votes by creating a division between the people.
Abdulkadir Mukadam, London, UK
Bravo Spanish democracy! A huge turnout (76% of voters) voted to stop terrorism, whether perpetrated by invading armies or small groups of militants. Bush and Blair, what about your voters?
Carl Lander, New York, USA
Not a victory of terrorism at all. It is the defeat of the liars. You can not lie/manipulate about our beloved victims and expect us to shut up again. A victory of democracy.
Lola, Barcelona, Spain.
I am not surprised of the election because Spanish people were not only ignored by Aznar - who? Bush and Blair also ignored them, same as English people! Bush preferred to share with Aznar and Blair about the war instead of the people and a failure of the democratic system it was. So, realize the change. You will also see similar happen in England. Good luck to English people!
Jonas Torboli, Finland
If the Spaniards think they are appeasing the terrorists by voting out the government, they will soon realized their mistake. A terrorist is like a leper; you give him a handshake and comes around looking for an embrace.
Andy Cudjoe, USA
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This vote has proven to terrorist groups that if they kill enough people they can remove a government they don't like
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With this cowardly act the people of Spain have made the world a more dangerous place. This vote has proven to terrorist groups that if they kill enough people they can remove a government they don't like. Spain has now made terrorism an effect way to change the course of history. We should all expect more bombings now.
James McManus, USA
It is refreshing once again to see people power. Mr Blair, your time is soon to come.
Nick Georgiou, Brighton, UK
Osama bin Laden can now boast that he overthrew the government of a Western democracy. Its a big victory for the terrorists.
Patrick Kirk, Reading, UK
Por meterse en pleito ajeno! Spaniards know exactly what that means. That's why they voted Aznar out, the lie has ended. Aznar dragged Spain into a conflict totally foreign to the interests of Spain - political blunder of the 21st Century. Next is Blair!
Olman Bejarano, Costa Rica
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People understandably voted with their hearts, rightly or wrongly
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Everyone in Madrid knew the PP would blame Eta for as long as they could, because 90% of Spanish people were opposed to the war. The idea that these lives were taken as a result of something a mere 10% supported was bound to affect the election result. People understandably voted with their hearts, rightly or wrongly.
Faith Rose, Madrid, Spain
No surprised at all. Despite Mr Zapatero not having a strong team nor a clear political project, the majority of us have voted against the war in Iraq and the non-dialogue/autocratic/manipulative style of Mr Aznar
Isaac, Barcelona, Spain
Spain voted because Aznar ignored his people and took Spain into an illegal occupation of a sovereign nation. Blair should be watching very very carefully. He ignored the vast majority of this country about Iraq and he will go the same way!
Vish, UK
The Terrorists, whoever they are, must be delighted that their actions have had such a successful impact on the democratic process. They will no doubt be encouraged and continue with this strategy.
Ian Leake, Dubai, UAE
I am very pleased that PSOE has won the election. This is a lesson the PP had to learn: We did not support the war in Iraq and the Prime Minister did not listen to us. Now, he has to pay for his indifference towards us, the civilians. This also shows the Spanish democracy is stronger than ever. Long live the Spanish democracy!
Juan Manuel Estevez, London
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