Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has warned that the Middle East war presented a “far worse” scenario than the invasion of Iraq in 2003, AFP reports.

“This is not the same scenario as the illegal war in Iraq. We are facing something far worse. Much worse. With a potential impact that is far broader and far deeper,” he told parliament.

“This time, it’s an absurd and illegal war. A cruel one that sets us back from achieving our economic, social, and environmental goals.”

Sanchez said the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 had failed to achieve its goals and instead made life worse for ordinary people, saying it led to a sharp increase in fuel and grocery prices, a migration crisis and militant attacks in Europe.

He warned that the attacks on Iran could have a similar economic impact for millions.