Portugal's Response to a Hypothetical Attack on Gibraltar

To address the question of how Portugal would respond if Spain attacked Gibraltar, we need to delve into the political and historical contexts of the region. Given Spain's historically friendly relationship with Portugal and the ongoing territorial disputes in the region, the hypothetical scenario outlined here is quite hypotethical. However, a realistic analysis will still provide valuable insights.

Historical Context and Relationship

The relationship between Spain and Portugal is marked by centuries of shared history, cooperation, and mutual respect. As neighbors, the two countries have a long-standing tradition of diplomatic dialogue and collaboration. The scenario of Spain attacking its own territory, in this case Gibraltar, is highly unlikely due to the deep-seated peaceful nature of the relationship. Portugal, therefore, would not need to take any significant action beyond expressing its stance.

Legal and Diplomatic Approaches

Spain claims Gibraltar on legal grounds, arguing that the isthmus on which the airport is located was "stolen" in an act of piracy by the United Kingdom. While this is a contentious issue, Spain prefers a peaceful and diplomatic resolution rather than resorting to force. Historically, Spain has sought to resolve such disputes through international law and treaties.

Potential Scenarios

1. Diplomatic Condemnation: In response to a hypothetical attack, Portugal would likely commend the diplomatic route. A statement by the Portuguese government would condemn any military action, reiterating the importance of peaceful resolution and adherence to international norms. The use of politically correct language would dominate such a statement, emphasizing Portugal's commitment to international stability and law.

2. Reminders of Historical Claims: Within the context of diplomatic conversations, Portugal might also bring up its own territorial claims, such as Olivena, which was returned to Portugal in the Treaty of Vienna signed in 1815. This could potentially escalate the situation, given that Olivena is a significant point of dispute. By reminding Spain of past agreements and current violations, Portugal could provoke a diplomatic confrontation.

3. Neutral Stance: Another possibility is that Portugal would choose a neutral stance. Given the proximity of Olivena and other disputed territories to Portugal's border, engaging in the conflict could be seen as a risk. Portugal might prefer to maintain its neutrality, allowing the conflict to be managed without direct involvement. This would enable Portugal to avoid any unwanted complications and focus on maintaining its own interests.

4. EU Intervention: The European Union (EU) plays a significant role in regional politics. Portugal might align with the EU's stance, taking whatever action the EU decides to take. This approach could involve support for the British position on Gibraltar and a neutral stance on other territorial disputes. However, the most likely outcome is that Portugal would rely on the diplomatic framework established by the EU to manage the situation.

The Role of Diplomacy and International Law

The resolution of territorial disputes is often complex and requires a nuanced approach. The use of international law and diplomatic channels is crucial in such scenarios. Both Spain and Portugal should strive to resolve their disputes through peaceful means, including of course international legal mechanisms and agreements.

It is crucial to recognize that the potential for conflict in such sensitive areas necessitates a careful and deliberate approach. Misguided actions, such as the use of inflammatory language or impulsive military responses, can further escalate tensions and undermine the stability of the region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the hypothetical scenario of Portugal responding to a Spanish attack on Gibraltar is unlikely to play out as suggested. Instead, Portugal would likely follow a diplomatic and legal path, emphasizing the importance of peaceful resolution and adherence to international law. The relationship between Spain and Portugal is rooted in mutual respect and cooperation, making any form of military action highly improbable.

Lastly, it is imperative to use clear and descriptive language when discussing such sensitive topics. Terms like "attack," "take ownership," and similar phrases can be inflammatory and should be avoided in favor of more neutral and precise language.