Spain's Zapatero calls seized jewels a 'courtesy gift' amid probe

Former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero has stated that jewelry seized by police, valued at approximately €1.3 million ($1.5 million), was a personal gift received years ago and not intended for financial gain. Zapatero, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2011, is currently under investigation for alleged influence-peddling, accusations he denies.

In his first interview since being placed under investigation two months prior, Zapatero told Spanish public broadcaster TVE that the jewels found during a search of his office were a 'personal courtesy gift' stored with other family valuables. He asserted the jewelry was unrelated to his political activities and that its origin and handling would be fully explained to a judge, rejecting suggestions of personal enrichment.

Investigating Judge Jose Luis Calama has opened a separate probe into the jewelry, the origin of which remains undocumented according to investigators. While an auction house provisionally valued the items at about €1.3 million, Zapatero disputes this estimate. He also conceded that, in hindsight, he might not have accepted the gift.

The jewelry is part of a broader investigation that includes allegations that Zapatero profited from using his influence to secure the state-backed rescue of airline Plus Ultra, which he also denies. The opposition People's Party (PP) dismissed Zapatero's comments, with spokesperson Ester Muñoz stating he had not answered the public's questions.