Key facts
- At least 68 people were killed and dozens injured in a train crash on Wednesday.
- A high-speed train struck a stationary train due to a system failure.
- The stationary train was operated by Iryo, the moving train by Renfe.
- Protests erupted outside the Transport Ministry, with police using tear gas.
- Rail drivers plan to strike on Thursday over safety concerns.
Spain began three days of mourning on Thursday following a devastating train crash that killed at least 68 people and injured dozens more. The disaster occurred when a high-speed Renfe train collided with a stationary Iryo train on Wednesday morning. Officials are investigating the cause, with Spain's transport minister indicating a system failure led to the stationary train being cleared to move despite another train ahead being stalled. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with smoke and fire reported in the carriages. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the incident as 'unacceptable,' noting a previous serious rail crash earlier this year on the same line. The crash has prompted protests and calls for resignations, with rail drivers planning a strike over safety concerns.