Spanish politician shot
Alejandro Vidal-Quadras, a veteran Spanish right-wing politician, was shot in the face in broad daylight on a central Madrid street on Thursday, November 9, 2023.
The 78-year-old politician was conscious when taken to the hospital and was reported to be in stable condition. The bullet had passed through his jaw, fracturing it, and he was scheduled to undergo surgery.
The police are investigating the shooting, and have not yet made any arrests. According to Spanish state news agency EFE, the police believe the shooter fled the scene on a motorbike, wearing a black helmet . No motive for the attack has yet been established, but Vidal-Quadras suspects a link to his work with Iranian opposition.
Long-time member of Spain's conservative Popular Party, Vidal-Quadras held the position of regional leader in Catalonia, in addition to his duties as a European Parliament member. Eventually, Vidal-Quadra helped found the far-right Vox party.
Other politicians have spoken out in light of the shooting, sending their support and wishes to Vidal-Quadras. Spain’s acting prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, the president of Vox, Santiago Abascal, and Popular Party President Alberto Núñez Feijóo have all deplored the shooting and sent hopes for a swift recovery.