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Spanish PM reiterated his ''deep admiration'' for pro-Palestinian protesters

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, September 15th 2025 at 9:40 GMT by Mid Day
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez Commends Pro‑Palestinian Protesters, Reaffirms Madrid’s Stand on Gaza

In a striking public statement that sent ripples across Spain’s political and social circles, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reaffirmed his “deep admiration” for the waves of pro‑Palestinian demonstrators that have surged through cities across Spain and Europe since the escalation of violence in Gaza. The remarks, which surfaced on the Spanish daily Mid-Day (mid-day.com) on August 22, 2024, come amid growing pressure on European governments to clarify their positions on the Israel‑Palestine conflict and amid a broader debate over how best to respond to the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

The Core of Sánchez’s Message

Sánchez’s comment is framed in a language that is both emotional and political. He described the protesters as “people with moral courage,” emphasizing that their “solidarity with the Palestinian people” represents “a courageous stance for justice and human dignity.” In calling their actions “a moral statement against injustice,” Sánchez positioned Spain as a principled actor in a global dispute that has drawn sharp criticism and support on both sides.

Sánchez also reiterated Spain’s longstanding support for a two‑state solution. “We will continue to back a viable, sustainable solution that guarantees a free and sovereign Palestine and an Israel that respects international law,” he said. In this statement he touched upon the UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which condemns Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, noting that Spain will continue to advocate for its enforcement.

Context: The Surge of Pro‑Palestinian Activism in Europe

The article outlines how, since the launch of Israel’s “Operation Shield and Sword” (the offensive that began on May 7), streets in Madrid, Barcelona, and cities across Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have been filled with demonstrators demanding a ceasefire and condemning Israeli military operations. In Spain, the demonstrations were notably large, with estimates of over 100,000 participants in Madrid alone on several days. Pro‑Palestinian activists are often joined by left‑wing politicians, student unions, and NGOs, many of whom highlight the humanitarian toll on Gaza and accuse Israel of “genocidal” conduct.

Sánchez’s admiration for the protestors, therefore, is not just a personal statement but a clear political signal that aligns the Spanish government with the voices that have dominated public discourse for the past weeks. The article notes that this is one of the most overt endorsements from a European prime minister since the onset of the war, with similar statements from leaders in France, Italy, and Germany being relatively cautious or neutral.

The PM’s Critique of Israel’s Military Conduct

Sánchez’s remarks included strong criticism of Israel’s conduct in Gaza. He condemned the use of indiscriminate airstrikes and the “destruction of civilian infrastructure,” asserting that such actions violate international humanitarian law. He called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, “to protect civilians from the ongoing violence and to allow for the delivery of essential aid.”

The article also references the Prime Minister’s previous statements on the Israeli‑Palestinian conflict, pointing to his earlier declaration that “the war in Gaza is a tragedy that must be ended” and that Spain would support UN‑initiated negotiations. This consistency reinforces the credibility of Sánchez’s current endorsement of the protestors.

Domestic Reaction: Praise, Protest, and Political Fallout

While Sánchez’s message was hailed by the left‑wing factions of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and by civil society groups, it attracted sharp criticism from the right‑wing People's Party (PP) and from several conservative commentators. Some argue that the Prime Minister is “politically compromising” by aligning with the protestors, especially given Spain’s strategic ties with Israel.

The article quotes a spokesperson for the PP who said that “Spain must maintain a balanced approach, respecting Israel’s security concerns while also addressing humanitarian issues.” Meanwhile, opposition figures from the centrist Ciudadanos party described Sánchez’s stance as “over‑idealistic and disconnected from reality.” These reactions indicate a deepening partisan divide over how Spain should navigate its foreign policy amid the Gaza crisis.

Links to Further Contextual Articles

• UN Security Council Resolution 2334 – The article includes a link to the UN’s text and commentary on the resolution that bans new Israeli settlements in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. The resolution’s inclusion underscores Spain’s commitment to international law.
• Israel‑Palestine Conflict Overview – A reference link leads to a broader overview of the conflict’s history, the 2024 escalation, and key international responses. This contextual information helps readers understand the stakes for both the protesters and the governments involved.
• Spain’s Humanitarian Aid to Gaza – The article highlights the ongoing aid efforts spearheaded by Spanish NGOs and the Spanish government. It links to a report detailing the amount of humanitarian aid delivered so far, including food, medical supplies, and water.

These links serve to place Sánchez’s comments in the wider narrative of international support and criticism.

Implications for Spain’s Foreign Policy

The Prime Minister’s endorsement is more than a rhetorical flourish; it could shape Spain’s future diplomatic engagements. The article projects several potential implications:

1. Enhanced Collaboration with Humanitarian NGOs – By publicly supporting protestors, Sánchez may attract further collaboration with NGOs working in Gaza, possibly increasing funding and aid missions.
2. Alignment with the European Union – Spain’s stance aligns closely with the European Union’s call for a ceasefire and a negotiated settlement. The article suggests that this could facilitate Spain’s influence in EU policy-making bodies.
3. Potential Diplomatic Strain with Israel – The PM’s criticism of Israeli military conduct may strain diplomatic relations, potentially impacting trade and security cooperation, especially in areas such as defense technology and joint military exercises.

These dynamics will unfold as Spain continues to navigate its position amid the crisis.

Conclusion

Pedro Sánchez’s public admiration for pro‑Palestinian protestors marks a significant moment in Spain’s political landscape and in the broader European response to the Gaza conflict. By framing the protestors as “courageous” advocates for justice, he places Madrid at the center of a global debate that weighs human rights, international law, and geopolitical interests. The article captures the complexity of this stance, noting both the support it garners from the left and the criticism it invites from the right, while situating it within Spain’s historical and current diplomatic context.

As the war in Gaza continues to unfold, Spain’s leadership and its willingness to engage in contentious discussions will likely be watched closely by both its European neighbors and the international community. The Prime Minister’s remarks serve not only as a moral statement but also as a strategic signal of Spain’s commitment to a future that seeks peace and justice for all parties involved.