Train Disruptions Leave Over 10,700 Passengers Stranded in Spain

A series of coordinated copper cable thefts near Toledo caused severe disruption on Spain's high-speed rail network connecting Madrid and Seville, stranding nearly 11,000 passengers and halting or delaying about 30 trains. The thefts targeted crucial signaling systems at multiple points, leading to hours-long delays, overcrowded stations, and confusion, especially as travelers returned from the May Day holiday weekend. Passengers reported being trapped on trains without light, ventilation, or basic amenities, while Madrid's Atocha station was overwhelmed by crowds seeking updates. Renfe, Spain's rail operator, urged travelers to delay their arrivals to manage congestion, and authorities labeled the incident as 'sabotage' given its strategic execution. The disruption comes just a week after a major blackout in Spain and Portugal had already exposed vulnerabilities in the region's critical infrastructure. The incident has drawn criticism from stranded travelers and officials, highlighting ongoing concerns over the security and resilience of Spain's transport systems.