Former King Juan Carlos of Spain, who has been living in self-imposed exile in Abu Dhabi since August 2020 due to various scandals, is openly expressing his wish to return to Spain and his frustration at not being able to stay in the Zarzuela Palace whenever he visits the country. This comes to light amid renewed debate over his role during the failed coup attempt on February 23, 1981. Recently, 168 documents related to this attempted coup were declassified, emphasizing the importance of the monarch's actions during a turbulent chapter in Spanish history.

The discussion of King Juan Carlos's role during the coup attempt, which was marked by the iconic image of Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Tejero brandishing a weapon in the Spanish Congress, has ignited public interest and scrutiny. Tejero passed away this week at the age of 93, coinciding with the release of official reports and transcripts from the Moncloa Palace that highlight critical conversations leading up to and during the coup. This resurgence of interest in the king's actions at that time raises questions about the political climate in Spain and the legacy of the monarchy.

As the country reflects on the implications of these declassified documents, there is speculation regarding the former king's potential return. His desire to reclaim a place in Spain’s monarchy after a controversial exile could signify a shift in the current royal narrative. The debate surrounding his past actions and their impact on Spain’s democratic transition is likely to unfold, as both supporters and critics weigh in on the monarchy's future and Juan Carlos's legacy within it.