Right-wing coalition gains narrow edge in Spanish election, complicating government formation

Ballots from Spaniards abroad gave the right-wing coalition 172 seats, dropping left-wing forces to 171 seats.
The tight seat margin makes it difficult for either side to form a stable governing coalition.
Socialist PM Pedro Sánchez is the only leader positioned to form a coalition but needs support from separatist parties.
Seeking support from Catalan separatist parties could be politically risky for Sánchez.
If no government is formed within 3 months, new elections will be called.