Spanish prosecutors seek up to 27 years for Iran-linked plot against former MP Alejo Vidal-Quadras
Spanish prosecutors have asked courts to imprison up to 27 years the suspects in the Iran-backed attack on former MP Alejo Vidal-Quadras, who survived a daylight shooting in Madrid.
Spain’s top court prosecutor has filed charges requesting up to 27 years of imprisonment for eight individuals tied to the November 2023 attempt on former PP and Vox politician Alejo Vidal-Quadras. The indictment alleges the attack was planned by a criminal organization directed by Iran, with shooter Mehrez Ayari arrested in the Netherlands after fleeing Spain. The accused face penalties for membership in a criminal group and terrorist homicide attempts, with specific terms of five to 22 years plus a six-year special disqualification.
Investigators say the cell, led by Sami Bekal Bounouare, rented cars, installed hidden cameras and arranged weapons and an escape route to Portugal. Vidal-Quadras survived after being shot in the face near his Madrid home; he had been singled out for his role in defending the MEK and removing it from the EU terror list. Iranian state media warned Spain of “serious consequences” for harboring the opposition.
Why it matters
It reveals Iran's alleged overseas targeting of dissidents and Spain's legal response to a high-profile terrorist plot.
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