Sánchez’s foreign policy draws fire at home and abroad

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has reignited controversy by calling for Israel’s exclusion from international cultural events, such as the Eurovision Song Contest, citing the country's ongoing military operations in Gaza. 

Speaking at a cultural conference in Madrid on Monday, Sánchez drew a parallel with Russia’s exclusion from such events following its invasion of Ukraine.

“We cannot allow double standards, not even in culture,” Sánchez said, arguing that Israel should be treated the same way as Russia was in 2022.

Sánchez, leader of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and governing through a fragile alliance with left-wing and separatist parties, has been a vocal critic of Israeli policy in the Palestinian territories. His remarks follow mounting pressure from pro-Palestinian activists across Europe, who have been calling for Israel's suspension from cultural and sporting platforms.

The Spanish government was among the first in Europe to formally recognize a Palestinian state, alongside Norway and Ireland. While supported by some sectors of Spanish society, Sánchez's foreign policy stance on Israel has been divisive both domestically and internationally.

Critics accuse him of politicizing cultural platforms and taking positions that risk damaging Spain’s diplomatic credibility. Opponents, including conservative lawmakers, argue that Sánchez’s position undermines Spain’s traditionally balanced approach to Middle East diplomacy.

“It’s not just about policy anymore. This is about moral consistency. If we banned Russia, we should ban Israel too,” Sánchez said, in response to claims of inconsistency.

Despite this rhetoric, polls suggest that many Spaniards remain sympathetic to Israel, particularly in the face of rising extremism in the region. This gap between popular sentiment and government position has further contributed to Sánchez’s growing unpopularity at home, especially among moderates.

Tensions with Israel and Europe

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has not yet issued a response to Sánchez's latest comments. However, in previous statements, Israel has condemned Spain’s diplomatic moves as “rewarding Hamas” and “undermining regional stability.”

Sánchez has also called for a Europe-wide arms embargo on Israel, which Spain began enforcing in 2023. While this move aligns with his coalition’s progressive platform, it has strained ties with key EU partners and sparked criticism from human rights observers who argue that military aid policies should be guided by transparent, consistent standards.

Eurovision and Cultural Diplomacy

The Eurovision Song Contest, which insists on its political neutrality, became a flashpoint again this year.

 Israel’s representative Yuval Raphael won the public televote, while Austria's JJ took the overall title. Despite calls from activist groups, Israel was not disqualified, and Sánchez’s comments are likely to intensify debates over the boundaries of cultural diplomacy.

As Spain faces internal political challenges and increasing polarization, Sánchez's critics argue that his international positions serve to distract from domestic discontent, including economic uncertainty and rising disapproval of his leadership.

Whether his stance will influence EU policy or further isolate Spain diplomatically remains to be seen. 

For now, Sánchez has positioned himself at the center of one of Europe’s most sensitive and polarizing international debates.