Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez sparked a stormy debate when he declared that Israel should be banned from international sporting competitions after the Vuelta a España cycling race ended early. The reason, he said, is the "barbarity" in Gaza, which must not be "whitewashed" by participation in prestigious events.
"I think the debate that started after what happened in Madrid on Sunday should spread to all corners of the world," Sánchez said. "As long as the barbarity continues, Israel must not use any international platform to whitewash its presence. Sports organizations should question whether it is ethical for Israel to continue to participate in international competitions."
The prime minister also expressed "deep admiration" for all those who protested peacefully against the participation of the Israel-Premier Tech team. The demonstrations, which turned into chaos and clashes with police in Madrid on Sunday, attracted 100,000 people, according to the government. Twenty-two police officers were injured and two people were arrested.
Sánchez, who has previously described the Israeli offensive in Gaza as genocide, added: "Today Spain shines as an example and a source of pride. It sets an example to the international community by taking a step forward in defence of human rights."
The conservative opposition accused the prime minister of escalating the situation. The leader of the People's Party Alberto Núñez Feijóo He said: "I defend freedom of expression as long as it does not lead to violence or rioting. The government allowed and encouraged the non-completion of the Vuelta and the international disgrace that was broadcast to the whole world." The President of the Region of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso She added: "When the Prime Minister calls for a boycott of the Vuelta, he becomes directly responsible for every incident. What a shame for our sport and our country!"
The Israeli government has described Sánchez's position on Gaza as "a continuous anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic attack". Minister for Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar he said: "A pro-Palestinian crowd heard inflammatory messages - and destroyed the La Vuelta bike race. Sánchez and his government - a disgrace to Spain!"
By contrast, polls show that a majority of Spaniards share the government's position. According to an analysis by the Elcano think tank, 82 % of those polled think Israel is committing genocide and 70 % support EU sanctions against Israel.
While Europe grapples with whether Israel has a place in sport or culture, its foothold in world politics is being confirmed. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on a visit to Jerusalem today, assured that the United States stands firmly on Israel's side.
"The people of the Gaza Strip deserve a better future, but it cannot begin until Hamas is eliminated," Rubio said at a joint press conference with the prime minister, according to AFP. Benjamin Netanyahu. "Israel has the unwavering support of the United States in its efforts to achieve its stated goals in the war in the Gaza Strip."
Netanyahu reiterated that he does not rule out further strikes against Hamas leadership "no matter where it is". On Tuesday, Israel attacked part of the movement's political leadership in Qatar. "Israel takes full responsibility," said the Prime Minister. Rubio only added that the US was in contact with allied Gulf countries before and after the attack.
This brings into sharper focus the contrast between European criticism and American support for Israel - between Sánchez's efforts to isolate Israel and Rubio's assurances that Washington will stand by him.
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