The claim that Gibraltar is Spanish in Spain is based on history and territorial sovereignty. Gibraltar is a British overseas territory, but Spain claims sovereignty, arguing that the territory is part of its territorial integrity.
Gibraltar’s history dates back to 1704, when it was captured by Anglo-Dutch forces during the War of the Spanish Succession. In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht formally ceded Gibraltar to Britain, although Spain has maintained its claim to the territory ever since.
For many Spaniards, the phrase “Gibraltar is Spanish” expresses a nationalist sentiment and a desire to regain what they consider to be territory that should belong to Spain. This issue is a point of tension in relations between Spain and the United Kingdom, and has been the subject of numerous debates and negotiations over the years.
In short, the claim is framed within a historical, political and emotional context that reflects Spain’s perspective on Gibraltar’s sovereignty.