Spain has ordered Airbnb to block more than 65,000 holiday rental listings due to violations of local regulations, according to the Consumer Rights Ministry. The affected 65,935 listings lacked proper licensing information, such as license numbers or ownership details, and some listed incorrect data. The move is part of Spain's broader effort to address a housing crisis fueled by the proliferation of short-term rentals in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, where housing costs have risen sharply, prompting protests from residents. Spain's official data indicates that about 321,000 homes had rental licenses as of November 2024, with many operating without licenses. Airbnb plans to appeal the decision, arguing that the ministry lacks authority over short-term rentals and criticizing the methodology used for the listings included. The Spanish government, backed by Madrid's high court, has mandated the immediate removal of 5,800 listings, with further orders to reach nearly 66,000. The affected properties are located across Spain, including Madrid, Andalusia, and Catalonia. The government aims to curb illegal rentals and protect housing supply for residents, with some cities like Barcelona planning to eliminate all licensed short-term rentals by 2028.