Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, has called for Israel to be barred from international sports competitions for as long as its “barbarism” in Gaza continues, saying the country should not be allowed to use high-profile events to “whitewash” its offensive.
Speaking a day after pro-Palestinian demonstrators forced a premature end to the Vuelta a España cycle race amid chaotic scenes and clashes with police, Sánchez said he had “a deep admiration” for all those who had protested peacefully against the participation of the Israel-Premier Tech team.
The prime minister – who has been fiercely criticised by his opponents for praising the protesters hours before the race had to be abandoned – said he hoped Sunday’s events in Madrid would lead others to reconsider whether Israel should be included in major sporting events. ….more