Tougher stance towards Israel bolsters embattled Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez
In the heart of Europe, Spain's political landscape has been shaken by a series of events surrounding the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Pedro Sánchez, Spain's Prime Minister, announced a string of measures against Israel in early October, including a weapons embargo and the banning of two Israeli government ministers from entering Spain. This decision was met with strong criticism from Gideon Sa'ar, Israel's foreign minister, who accused Sánchez and his communist ministers of encouraging violence. The conflict in Gaza has become a significant talking point in Spanish politics, with both Sánchez and Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the leader of the conservative People's Party (Partido Popular, PP), potentially benefiting from the headlines. The Royal Elcano Institute reported that 82% of Spaniards view Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide. In a parliamentary debate, Feijoó, the leader of the opposition, accused Sánchez of using the Middle East conflict as a smokescreen to cover up his own disgraces. This accusation came amidst allegations of a kickbacks-for-contracts scheme involving senior Socialist officials, including Sánchez's No. 3, Santos Cerdán, and another former close ally, José Luis Ábalos. Sánchez has been among Europe's most outspoken critics of Israel over its response to the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas. He described Israel's actions as "genocide" in June. In response, Israel barred two of Sánchez's ministers from entering the country and labeled the Spanish government as antisemitic. Meanwhile, Ayuso's administration has reportedly attempted to pressure schools not to hang Palestinian flags. Ayuso, a potential threat to Feijoó for the party leadership, has boldly supported Israel, even having her photograph taken with the Israel Premier Tech cycling team. However, her stance has led to protests, with pro-Palestinian protesters disrupting the Vuelta a España cycling race, leading to its cancellation and injuries to 22 police officers. Amidst these tensions, King Felipe has denounced an "unbearable humanitarian crisis" in Gaza, forcing the opposition leader to shift his position closer to that of Sánchez and criticize Israel's actions. Oscar Lopez, minister for digital transformation in Spain, said he is proud to be part of a government that is making the world move. The Palestinian question is being used by Sánchez to tighten his connection with his voter base and potentially steal electoral space from parties like Podemos and Sumar. As the conflict continues, it remains to be seen how this will impact the political landscape of Spain.
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