Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for Israel to be excluded from international sports competitions over its actions in Gaza.
Israel cannot continue to use any international platform to whitewash its image, he told elected representatives of his Socialist Workers' Party.
He suggested that Israel should be treated in the same way as Russia over its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In unfurling this sentiment, Sánchez remarked that previous protests during the Vuelta a España cycling race showcased Spain as an example of solidarity regarding Gaza.
Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, branded Sánchez as a disgrace, accusing him of inciting protests that led to the cancellation of the cycling race's final stage, which included an Israeli team.
Sánchez asserted that the protests, reportedly involving around 100,000 participants, were a necessary mobilization against what he termed genocide.
Israeli officials have consistently denied allegations of genocide, framing their military actions as defensive measures.
The relationship between Spain and Israel has been strained since late 2023, as Spain began recognizing Palestinian statehood and enacting measures against Israel, including an arms embargo.
A recent poll indicated that 82% of Spaniards believe genocide is occurring in Gaza, demonstrating a significant shift in public opinion on the matter.
As tensions rise, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed a desire to reconsider trade agreements with Israel, joining calls for a more unified approach on addressing humanitarian issues in Gaza.
The unfolding situation highlights the increasing polarization over the Israel-Palestine conflict within global sports and politics.
