15.05.2026 16:10
Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez announced that his country will not participate in this year's Eurovision Song Contest, stating, "When Russia invaded Ukraine, it was removed from the competition. The same principles should apply to Israel; there can be no double standards. Silence in the face of illegal war and genocide is not an option. We cannot remain indifferent to what is happening in Gaza and Lebanon. This is a matter of responsibility and humanity."
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that his country will not participate in this year's Eurovision Song Contest. Sanchez argued that Israel should be excluded from the competition, emphasizing "double standards."
“THE SAME PRINCIPLES MUST APPLY TO ISRAEL”
In his statement, Pedro Sanchez recalled that Russia was removed from Eurovision after its invasion of Ukraine. Sanchez said, "Russia was removed from the competition when it invaded Ukraine. The same principles must be applied to Israel; there can be no double standards."
“WE CANNOT REMAIN INDIFFERENT TO GAZA AND LEBANON”
Describing Israel's actions in Gaza and Lebanon as "genocide," Sanchez stated, "Silence in the face of illegal war and genocide is not an option. We cannot remain indifferent to what is happening in Gaza and Lebanon. This is a matter of responsibility and humanity."
DEBATES REIGNITED
Spain's decision not to participate in Eurovision has sparked widespread reactions in the international community. Sanchez's remarks regarding Israel and his stance on the competition have reignited debates.