Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has formally defended the decision to boycott the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, citing Israel's participation in the event. Speaking to the press, Sánchez stressed that the move is part of his government's firm foreign policy stance against Israel's policies toward Palestinians.
According to official sources, the boycott decision followed internal discussions and received support from several political parties. Sánchez argued that Israel's involvement in an international cultural event like Eurovision is inappropriate given the ongoing military actions causing civilian casualties in Gaza.
In response, a spokesperson for Israel's Foreign Ministry described Spain's decision as "an unacceptable political discrimination" and called on the international community to condemn it. Meanwhile, Eurovision organizers said they respect each country's decision but emphasized the contest will proceed as planned.
This is not the first time Spain has taken a tough stance against Israel. The government has repeatedly condemned Israeli attacks on Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire. The Eurovision boycott is seen as the latest step in Madrid's diplomatic campaign to pressure Tel Aviv.
