Madrid eviction of 87-year-old sparks mass protests and housing crisis pressure

The forced eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from her Madrid apartment has triggered mass protests across Spain, intensifying political pressure on the government over housing affordability. Abascal was removed by police on September 23 after Spain's Supreme Court ruled in favor of the building's owner, Urbagestión, which had raised her rent from 500 to 2,650 euros monthly, far exceeding her 1,350-euro pension. Hundreds of protesters, including activists and celebrities, attempted to block the eviction. The case has become a political flashpoint, with left-wing politicians blaming conservatives and vice versa. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has pledged to make housing a priority in 2025. Abascal, hospitalized for stress, said she fought to inspire others to defend their homes.