The 24-hour strike was called by major labor organizations and trade unions, disrupting public transport, industrial operations and other public services across the country.
According to trade unions, more than three million people participated in the strike. Authorities reported that around 120,000 people took part in demonstrations in the capital Madrid, while more than 55,000 protesters gathered in Barcelona.
Demonstrators raised slogans against rising property prices and rents, urging the government to make housing more affordable and take measures to improve people's purchasing power.
Clashes Between Protesters and Police
Tensions escalated in Barcelona following the demonstrations, with clashes reported between masked protesters and police.
Some demonstrators set rubbish bins on fire and smashed the windows of several shops. There were also reports of fireworks being thrown at police officers.
According to reports, commercial establishments along some of Barcelona's prominent shopping streets were damaged. Some protesters also attempted to enter a store belonging to a major technology company.
In Madrid, clashes were also reported between protesters and police, with officers using tear gas and other crowd-control measures to disperse demonstrators.
115 Arrested During Nationwide Protests
According to international news agency Reuters, 115 people were arrested across Spain during the strike and related incidents.
The demonstrations disrupted road traffic in several cities, while public transport and commercial activities were also affected.
Protesters said rising rents and inflation had made it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens, particularly young people, to secure housing and live independently.
Trade unions and housing rights organisations called on the government to address the housing crisis, curb rent increases and ensure fair wages for workers.
