Spain's unexpected reclamation of Gibraltar stunned the world, catching other nations completely off guard. Could it be possible that the British willingly returned Gibraltar to Spain out of goodwill? Such a notion was utterly inconceivable. Almost everyone suspected a hidden agenda behind this turn of events.
Germany's covetous gaze toward Gibraltar was no secret. Given its strategic location, no global power would tolerate such a pivotal stronghold slipping from its grasp. Other nations watched intently, awaiting Germany's response: would they swallow this bitter pill quietly or resort to force against Spain in retaliation?
Swallowing their pride was hardly in line with Germany's character, especially given the young emperor's impetuous nature. If war were to break out, Germany's actions might appear overly domineering. Though they possessed the strength and means, such blatant aggression could provoke resistance from other nations, concerned about safeguarding their own interests against an unrestrained hegemon. Thus, many countries hoped to glean insights into Germany's future conduct from their handling of this crisis, allowing them to formulate countermeasures accordingly.
In the royal palace of Madrid, King Alfonso XIII paced anxiously, his nerves stretched thin. Regret weighed heavily upon him. The moment he learned of the German fleet's arrival off Gibraltar's coast, he realized he had underestimated Germany's determination. Fear consumed him—what if Germany launched an unbridled assault on Spain? Spain's forces would be utterly overwhelmed, and the consequences would be catastrophic.
"What should we do? What's our next step? The German fleet is already at Gibraltar's doorstep. A single misstep could plunge us into war with Germany. How could we possibly withstand their might?" Alfonso XIII fretted aloud.
"Your Majesty, the Germans have only positioned their fleet near Gibraltar; they have yet to launch an attack. Perhaps the situation is not as dire as it seems. If Germany intended to strike, they would have done so by now," said Prime Minister Count Romanones reassuringly.
"Do you think the Germans won't attack?" Alfonso XIII's eyes glimmered with hope. His greatest fear was a German offensive that would doom his kingdom. If there was no attack, the situation might not be as bleak as he had imagined.
"Your Majesty, considering the circumstances, an attack seems unlikely. Gibraltar has always been Spanish territory; reclaiming it is well within our rights. No one can fault us for that. Moreover, as the reigning global hegemon, Germany must maintain its reputation. If they recklessly attack another sovereign nation, it would set a dangerous precedent. Other countries would never tolerate such behavior. I believe Germany will ultimately let this matter slide," added Foreign Minister Prieto confidently.
Alfonso XIII, a man naturally indecisive, found their arguments persuasive and felt his anxieties ease.
"If Germany accepts this fait accompli and refrains from attacking, it would be the best possible outcome. I will go down in history as the only Spanish king to reclaim Gibraltar!" Alfonso XIII exclaimed with delight. A man who relished glory and pride, he reveled in the prospect of such an achievement.
"Your Majesty, even if Germany chooses not to attack, they are undoubtedly displeased with us. I suggest we reach out to them and work to mend our relations. After all, Germany is a global superpower, far stronger than us. Avoiding conflict with them would be in our best interest," Count Romanones advised.
Alfonso XIII nodded vigorously, agreeing wholeheartedly. He had no desire to antagonize the world's most powerful nation. The allure of reclaiming Gibraltar had been too great to resist, but now, he was determined not to press his luck.
"I feel like a gambler who has won against the odds. To keep playing risks losing everything. It's time to take my winnings and leave," Alfonso XIII mused privately.
"Your Majesty, we must also prepare our military. Should Germany decide to act, we cannot surrender without a fight. Doing so would cost us all dignity. If conflict arises, we should confine the fighting to Gibraltar. That way, even if we lose, the damage will be limited, and we can still claim we tried our best. The people will understand we were simply outmatched. This would absolve you of responsibility while reaffirming Spain's resilience to the world. Even against a hegemon like Germany, Spain stands firm. Such a stance would enhance our international standing," Count Romanones elaborated.
Alfonso XIII was momentarily stunned by the prime minister's logic. After some thought, he realized the plan was indeed feasible.
"Very well, Prime Minister. Proceed as you've outlined," Alfonso XIII declared, steeling himself to follow this cautious strategy.