Spanish PM Advocates for Israel's Exclusion from Eurovision Amid Gaza Conflict**

Sánchez emphasizes the need for consistency in international cultural participation standards, expressing solidarity with Palestinians, while Israel's officials respond critically.**

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has publicly advocated for Israel's removal from the Eurovision Song Contest, linking the call to the ongoing military actions in Gaza. During a press conference in Madrid, Sánchez highlighted that since Russia has been banned from the contest since 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine, similar measures should apply to Israel amidst the recent violence. He stressed the importance of avoiding "double standards" within cultural events.

Despite Israel's Yuval Raphael securing second place in the Eurovision grand final held in Switzerland, the Spanish audience notably awarded Israel the maximum 12 points for the song "New Day Will Rise." This public support prompted a sharp response from the Israeli minister for diaspora affairs, Amichai Chikli, who mockingly referred to the vote as a "slap in the face" to Sánchez, emphasizing the contrast with the Spanish government's stance.

Sánchez has been outspoken about the situation in Gaza, previously labeling Israel a "genocidal state." His administration formally recognized a Palestinian state last year, reflecting a significant political alignment with Palestinian rights. During his remarks, he maintained that Spain's commitment to international law and human rights must remain steadfast and consistent with broader European principles.

In light of recent events, Spain's national broadcaster RTVE requested an audit of the Eurovision voting, seeking to clarify the voting process after promoting a message in support of Palestinians, which had been advised against by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). Meanwhile, Spain's own entry, "Esa Diva" by Melody, finished in a disappointing 24th position in the contest.

Sánchez's commentary has drawn international attention, reigniting debates over cultural engagement and political accountability in light of ongoing conflicts globally. The situation continues to unfold as Eurovision organizers, the EBU, have yet to provide an official statement on Sánchez's demands or the implications of the recent voting results.