Spanish PM Calls for Israel’s Exclusion from International Sports

In a significant political statement, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has urged for Israel to be barred from participating in international sports events due to its actions in Gaza. This call comes amidst escalating tensions and widespread protests related to the ongoing conflict in the region.

Sánchez’s Remarks on Israel’s Participation

During a recent meeting with members of his Socialist Workers’ Party, Sánchez expressed that “Israel cannot continue to use any international platform to whitewash its image.” He compared Israel’s situation to that of Russia, which has faced international isolation following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This comparison underscores Sánchez’s belief that Israel should be held accountable for its actions in Gaza, which he and many others have characterized as genocidal.

Reactions from Israel and Supporters

The response from Israel was swift and critical. Gideon Saar, Israel’s Foreign Minister, labeled Sánchez as “a disgrace” and accused him of inciting pro-Palestinian protests in Madrid. These protests were significant enough to lead to the cancellation of the final stage of the Vuelta a España cycling race, an event in which an Israeli team was set to compete.

Earlier in the day, Sánchez had commended the protests, which drew approximately 100,000 participants according to official estimates. He stated that Spain “shines as an example, with pride” regarding the Gaza situation. This sentiment was echoed by various Spanish government ministers, including Óscar López, the Minister of Digital Transformation, who remarked on the mobilization against what he termed “genocide.”

The Broader Context of Protests and Government Stance

The protests in Spain have highlighted a growing public sentiment against Israel’s military actions in Gaza. López’s comments reflect a broader view within the Spanish government, where several ministers have expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun reiterated Sánchez’s earlier calls for Israel to be excluded from the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, emphasizing the need for a unified stance against Israel’s participation amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Public broadcasters in Ireland and the Netherlands have already announced they would withdraw from Eurovision if Israel is included, citing the “appalling” loss of life and suffering in the region.

Historical Tensions Between Spain and Israel

The relationship between Spain and Israel has been strained since late 2023, when Sánchez voiced concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza. Some members of his government even suggested severing diplomatic ties with Israel at that time. In 2024, Spain joined Norway and Ireland in formally recognizing a Palestinian state, further complicating diplomatic relations.

Recently, Sánchez accused Israel of committing genocide and announced measures against the country, including an arms embargo. In response, Saar accused Sánchez’s administration of antisemitism and using “wild and hateful rhetoric” against Israel.

Public Sentiment in Spain

A recent poll conducted by the Elcano Royal Institute indicated that a significant majority of Spaniards—82%—believe that genocide is occurring in Gaza. This public perception may be influencing the Spanish government’s stance and actions regarding Israel.

European Union’s Response

In the wake of Sánchez’s statements, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also called for a suspension of free trade and bilateral support with Israel. She highlighted the “man-made famine” affecting Gaza and lamented Europe’s “painful” inability to adequately respond to the situation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently denied that starvation is occurring in Gaza, attributing any hunger to the actions of aid agencies and Hamas. Israel has accused international organizations, including the UN, of failing to distribute aid that is available at the Gaza border, claiming that many aid trucks remain idle.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached alarming levels. Since the onset of the conflict, which was triggered by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, over 64,871 people have reportedly been killed in Israeli attacks, according to figures from Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. The ongoing restrictions on food and medical aid into the territory have exacerbated the crisis, leading to accusations that Israel is responsible for creating famine conditions.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains divided on how to address the complex and deeply rooted conflict between Israel and Palestine.

Key Facts

– Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez calls for Israel’s exclusion from international sports.
– Sánchez compares Israel’s actions in Gaza to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
– Protests in Madrid led to the cancellation of the final stage of the Vuelta a España.
– Israel’s Foreign Minister accuses Sánchez of inciting anti-Israel sentiment.
– Public sentiment in Spain shows 82% believe genocide is occurring in Gaza.
– European Commission President calls for suspension of trade and support with Israel.
– Over 64,000 people reported killed in Gaza since the conflict escalated in October 2023.

Source: www.bbc.com