Legal experts question Zapatero's claim that Saudi king gifted undisclosed jewelry

Former prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero sent a written submission to judge José Luis Calama of the Audiencia Nacional, maintaining that the jewelry uncovered by the UDEF in his former office originated as a gift from King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud in June 2007, when the monarch visited Spain. Zapatero asked the court to request an official confirmation from the Saudi Royal Court via a request for international judicial assistance.

Tax lawyer Esaú Alarcón argued that failing to declare the items indicates possible intent or bad faith and could constitute a fiscal offence. He also pointed out that proper documentation, such as insurance or valuation, is missing, making the gift claim appear fabricated. Professor Miguel Pérez de Ayala explained that fiscal crimes have a five-year prescription, extending to ten years for larger amounts, though no specific sum was cited in the source. The debate centers on whether Zapatero can shift the burden of proof to the judge or must substantiate the alleged gift himself.