Spain calls for 'Israel’s' exclusion from international sports
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for 'Israel' to be barred from international sports competitions due to its actions in Gaza.
“Israel cannot continue to use any international platform to whitewash its image,” he said, urging it to be treated like Russia after its 2022 war on Ukraine.
'Israel’s' Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Sánchez of inciting pro-Palestinian protests in Madrid, which forced the cancellation of the Vuelta a España cycling race’s final stage. Sánchez and several Spanish ministers praised the protests, citing civilian deaths in Gaza.
Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun also repeated calls for 'Israel' to be excluded from next year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Ireland and the Netherlands have already threatened to boycott if 'Israel' participates.
Spain’s measures follow its recognition of a Palestinian state in 2024 and recent sanctions, including an arms embargo which drew huge condemnation from 'Israel.'
Sánchez and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have raised concerns about the man-made famine in Gaza.
