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Eurovision Faces Major Rift as Israel Cleared to Compete, Prompting Multiple Withdrawals

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The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decided not to hold a vote on Israel’s participation in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, confirming the country’s entry and triggering an immediate backlash. Broadcasters from Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland and Slovenia announced their withdrawal from the contest, citing the mounting death toll in Gaza and accusing Israel of violating Eurovision’s neutrality rules. Israel dismissed these objections as part of a global campaign against it.

The EBU instead approved new rules intended to curb government influence and prevent undue promotion of performers, after concerns that Israel boosted its 2025 entrant. While Israeli officials celebrated the decision as a stand against cultural boycotts, critics—including Ireland’s RTE and Spain’s RTVE—said the move exposed Eurovision as deeply shaped by geopolitical interests. Additional countries like Iceland are now weighing their participation, underscoring the widening divide.

Amid the fallout, Germany welcomed Israel’s inclusion, saying it aligned with Eurovision’s founding values of unity after World War II. Contest director Martin Green acknowledged the turbulence but said the event remains committed to neutrality and international cooperation. With the contest set for Vienna in May, Eurovision faces one of the most significant crises in its history.

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Spain’s Chief Prosecutor Resigns After Supreme Court Leak Verdict

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Spain’s chief prosecutor, Alvaro Garcia Ortiz, has resigned after the Supreme Court ruled last week that he was guilty of leaking confidential information relating to a tax fraud case involving the partner of Isabel Díaz Ayuso, a regional leader from the opposition Popular Party. The verdict marks a major setback for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s leftist coalition government, which appointed Garcia Ortiz in 2022 and has consistently defended him.

In a resignation letter addressed to Justice Minister Felix Bolaños and seen by Reuters, Garcia Ortiz said he was stepping down out of “profound respect” for the judicial system, even before the court’s sentence banning him from serving for two years formally takes effect. He insisted he had served his role with loyalty, a commitment to public service, and dedication to institutional integrity.

The government expressed disappointment over the ruling, with spokesperson Pilar Alegria stating that while they respect the decision, they disagree with it, citing concerns over the lack of consensus among judges and the unusual issuance of a verdict before full reasoning was published. Garcia Ortiz is expected to appeal to Spain’s Constitutional Court and may eventually take the case to the European Court of Human Rights.

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Spain Continues Franco-Era Exhumations as Families Seek Closure

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Spain has exhumed remains from a mass grave in Vegas de Matute as part of the country’s ongoing effort to recover victims executed during the Franco dictatorship. Forensic teams uncovered the body of a man believed to be either Luis Garcia Hernandez, a teacher and union member, or Julio Maroto Ortega, a road worker, both executed in 1936 by fascist forces during the Spanish Civil War. The discovery was observed by relatives and activists from the Association for the Recovery of Historical Memory, who have been pushing for justice and recognition since 2000.

The exhumation is one of many initiatives supported by Spain’s Socialist-led government since 2018, aimed at confronting the legacy of dictator Francisco Franco and offering dignity to thousands buried in unmarked graves. Local resident Jose Luis Cubo, 83, recounted how his grandfather had witnessed the execution and helped bury the bodies at night, calling the farmland area a long-feared “death zone.” Even decades later, he said, crops grew differently above what locals believed to be the burial site.

Spain remains deeply divided over Franco’s legacy, 50 years after his death ended four decades of dictatorship and paved the way for democracy and entry into the EU and NATO. Authorities estimate that around 114,000 people disappeared during the conflict and subsequent regime, though only 20,000 are likely recoverable today. With 9,000 bodies already found and 700 identified, the government expects the remaining graves to be uncovered within four years. Officials say each recovery helps restore historical truth, even if the remains cannot be individually named.

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Spain Locks Down All Poultry Amid Rising Bird Flu Threat

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Spain’s Agriculture Ministry has ordered an immediate nationwide lockdown of all poultry to curb the growing risk of bird flu, expanding measures first introduced last week for high-risk areas.

The move comes after a surge in avian influenza cases across Europe — 139 outbreaks since July, including 14 in Spain, with half detected in the Castille and Leon region. The ministry said the decision follows a heightened risk of the virus entering the country in recent days.

Under the new rules, all poultry farms — including organic and small-scale operations — must keep birds indoors to avoid contact with migratory species that could carry the virus. The order also prohibits mixing ducks and geese with other poultry, using untreated surface water, and holding bird fairs or exhibitions.

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Catalan Separatist Leader Carles Puigdemont Returns to Belgium

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Catalan separatist leader Carles Puigdemont announced on Friday that he has returned to Belgium after successfully evading arrest during a brief visit to Spain, asserting he never intended to surrender. “I’m in Waterloo after extremely difficult days,” he wrote on X. Puigdemont has lived in self-imposed exile since 2017 following a failed attempt to secure Catalonia’s independence.

His return to Spain, after seven years away, was marked by defiance against an arrest warrant as he addressed supporters at a rally on Thursday. The dramatic escape unfolded like a scene from a crime film, eliciting outrage from opposition politicians and the judiciary.

Eduard Sallent, commissioner of the Catalan regional police, Mossos d’Esquadra, explained that officers waited until after the rally to avoid a public confrontation. However, after his speech, Puigdemont slipped backstage, put on a baseball cap, and jumped into a waiting car. While police rushed toward the vehicle, around 50 supporters wearing straw hats formed a barrier, allowing Puigdemont to flee.

Sallent admitted the operation to arrest Puigdemont failed but insisted the Mossos acted according to plan and did not appear foolish. He expressed skepticism about Puigdemont’s claim of being in Belgium, stating, “I do not rule out that this man is still in Barcelona,” and emphasized that they would not rely on assumptions.

The Supreme Court judge overseeing the investigation demanded explanations from the Mossos and the national government regarding the failure to apprehend Puigdemont. While the Spanish parliament has pardoned others involved in the 2017 secession attempt, the Supreme Court ruled this does not apply to Puigdemont, who faces embezzlement charges related to funding the independence referendum deemed illegal by Spanish courts. Puigdemont argues that the vote was legitimate, thus invalidating the charges.

As blame circulated over his escape, Spain faced increased political turmoil, with the opposition People’s Party (PP) calling for the dismissal of the interior and defense ministers over Puigdemont’s evasion.

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France Narrowly Defeats Argentina Amid Ugly Scenes in Quarter-Final

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France secured a spot in the Olympic men’s football semi-finals against Egypt after defeating Argentina 1-0 in a tense quarter-final that ended with clashes between players and coaches from both sides.

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the decisive goal, heading in a corner from Michael Olise in the fifth minute. Argentina’s best opportunity came just before halftime when Giuliano Simeone missed a close-range header.

France had a late goal disallowed after a VAR review determined that Maghnes Akliouche had committed a foul before Olise’s deflected shot found the net. The rivalry between the teams was heightened by recent tensions, including Argentina players singing derogatory songs about France’s black players after winning the Copa America on July 14. The French crowd booed the Argentinian national anthem, and the skirmish at the end of the match underscored the ongoing animosity.

France, who last won Olympic gold in men’s football in 1984, will face Egypt in the semi-finals on Monday after the Pharaohs triumphed over Paraguay 5-4 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.

Argentina, who defeated France in the 2022 World Cup final, aimed to become the first team since Italy in 1936 to hold both the World Cup and Olympic titles simultaneously.

The day also saw French athletes excel, as they won gold medals in judo, swimming, and BMX cycling.

Spain reached the semi-finals by defeating Japan 3-0 in Lyon, with Fermin Lopez scoring twice. The Barcelona midfielder opened the scoring early with a powerful left-foot shot and added a second goal after halftime with a dipping right-foot effort. Japan’s Mao Hosoya had a goal disallowed for offside after a lengthy VAR check. Abel Ruiz capped off the victory with a late tap-in, setting up a semi-final clash with Morocco in Marseille on Monday.

Morocco dominated their quarter-final against the United States, winning 4-0 and reaching the semi-finals for the first time. Soufiane Rahimi scored from the penalty spot, Ilias Akhomach added a close-range goal, and captain Achraf Hakimi extended the lead with a fine left-foot shot. Substitute Mehdi Maouhoub completed the scoring with another penalty in stoppage time following a VAR review for handball.

“I felt at home in this stadium, where I play for my club, and our fans were very supportive and present,” said Hakimi, who plays for Paris St-Germain. “I hope they continue to support us all the way to the final; we want to make them proud.”

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Spain passes amnesty law for Catalan nationalists

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Spain’s Congress has passed a contentious Catalan amnesty law, clearing its final parliamentary hurdle before implementation. The law aims to halt legal actions against Catalan nationalists for their separatist activities, including the 2017 independence referendum and subsequent failed independence bid. The law narrowly passed with 177 votes in favor and 172 against, following a six-month parliamentary process initiated by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s Socialist Party (PSOE). Although delayed by the opposition-controlled Senate, it could not be blocked entirely.

The amnesty will be published in the official gazette, giving judges two months to apply it. While potential legal challenges remain, they are unlikely to impede the law’s implementation. Around 400 Catalan nationalists, involved in separatist actions since November 2011, will benefit, including those prosecuted for organizing the illegal 2017 referendum. Police facing charges for voter assaults during the referendum are also covered.

The most notable beneficiary is Carles Puigdemont, former Catalan president, who led the 2017 secession attempt and has since been in self-exile in Belgium. Puigdemont’s party, Together for Catalonia (JxCat), and the Catalan Republican Left (ERC) secured the amnesty in exchange for supporting Sánchez’s coalition government. Puigdemont plans to return to Spain for an investiture vote in the regional parliament, despite lacking sufficient support to form a government.

Miriam Nogueras of JxCat described the amnesty as “necessary redress” rather than clemency. The PSOE, their coalition partner Sumar, JxCat, ERC, the Basque EH Bildu coalition, the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), the Galician Nationalist Bloc (BNG), and far-left Podemos supported the law. The conservative People’s Party (PP), far-right Vox, and other regional conservatives opposed it. PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo condemned the amnesty as “political corruption,” accusing Sánchez of using it to secure his political position. Conversely, Artemi Rallo of the PSOE argued that the law, along with a 2022 pardon of nine jailed independence leaders, has “normalized politics in Catalonia.”

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Newly uncovered Caravaggio goes on show in Madrid

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A recently authenticated painting by the celebrated 17th-century artist Caravaggio, titled “Ecce Homo,” is set to debut at the Prado museum in Madrid. Initially misattributed to a lesser-known artist, the painting narrowly avoided auction in 2021 when the Spanish government intervened. Now recognized as a Caravaggio masterpiece, it represents a significant discovery in the art world.

Caravaggio, renowned for his groundbreaking use of light and shadow to depict intense realism, is hailed as a precursor to modern painting. “Ecce Homo” portrays the moment when Roman governor Pontius Pilate presents Christ to the public. With only about 60 known works by Caravaggio, each authenticated piece holds immense value and historical significance.

Believed to have once been part of King Philip IV of Spain’s collection, “Ecce Homo” resurfaced in Madrid in 2021, attributed to a lesser-known artist associated with 17th-century Spanish painter José de Ribera. However, suspicions about its true authorship arose among experts at the Prado, prompting government intervention to prevent its sale.

The painting will be exhibited until October in a special showing at the Prado museum before joining its permanent collection for an additional four months. Sold for €36 million, it will remain on loan to public collections, ensuring its accessibility to art enthusiasts worldwide rather than being held privately.

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Spain Demands Apology After Argentina’s President Insults PM’s Wife

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Spain has demanded a public apology after Javier Milei, Argentina’s president, implied that the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, Begoña Gómez, was corrupt during a far-right rally in Madrid. Although not directly naming her, Milei’s remarks were aimed at Ms. Gómez, whom he associated with corruption, saying, “When you have a corrupt wife, let’s say, it gets dirty.”

The controversy follows an investigation launched in April by a Spanish court into Ms. Gómez over allegations of influence peddling, which an opposition party had raised. The right-wing anti-corruption group making the allegations has since conceded they might be unfounded, and prosecutors called for the dismissal of the case last month due to a lack of evidence.

In response to Milei’s remarks, Spain’s foreign minister, José Manuel Albares, demanded an apology and warned that Spain might cut diplomatic ties with Argentina if none was forthcoming. Albares stated that Milei’s comments insulted both Spain and its leader.

However, Argentina’s Interior Minister Guillermo Francos stated that no apology would be issued by Argentina. Instead, he insisted that Spain should apologize for past remarks made about Milei. This follows a recent incident where a Spanish minister suggested that Milei had used drugs, which Milei condemned as slanderous.

The diplomatic tensions between Spain and Argentina have intensified since Milei, known for his contentious remarks about other world leaders, assumed office. He has previously labeled Brazil’s President Inacio Lula da Silva as an “angry communist” and Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador as “ignorant.”

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Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will not resign after allegations against wife

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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has declared his intent to continue serving as the country’s leader, despite recent uncertainties surrounding his position. Last week, he announced the suspension of all official engagements following the initiation of a corruption inquiry into his wife. Sánchez denounced the allegations as part of a concerted effort by right-wing media to undermine him.

Sánchez’s decision to temporarily step back from his duties caught many by surprise, including members of his own Socialist Party (PSOE), who were unaware of his contemplation about his political future. Since assuming office in 2018, Sánchez has faced various challenges, but this recent development marked a significant moment of uncertainty for his leadership.

The accusations against Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez, were lodged by the organization Manos Limpias (Clean Hands), which is led by Miguel Bernad, a figure associated with the far-right. However, on Thursday, the public prosecutor in Madrid recommended shelving the investigation due to a lack of substantial evidence. Additionally, Manos Limpias acknowledged that the allegations might be erroneous, as they were based on potentially false reports from online news sources.

Despite the tumultuous circumstances and the cloud of suspicion surrounding his wife, Sánchez’s resolve to remain in office underscores his determination to weather the political storm and continue leading Spain forward.

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