Local & Spanish

Local & Spanish


Madrid / 31 March 2026
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has strongly criticised new legislation passed by Israel introducing the death penalty for certain Palestinians, describing the move as “a step towards apartheid”.
The law, approved by the Knesset, would allow military courts to impose the death penalty as a default sentence on Palestinians in the West Bank convicted of carrying out deadly attacks classified as terrorism.
In a statement posted on social media, Sánchez said:
“Same crime, different penalty. That is not justice. It is one more step toward apartheid. The world cannot remain silent.”
International concern over discriminatory impact
The legislation has sparked widespread international concern, with critics arguing it creates a two-tier legal system by applying harsher penalties to Palestinians than to Israeli citizens accused of similar offences.
A joint statement from the governments of United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Australia expressed “deep concern” over the law, warning of its “de facto discriminatory character” and its potential to undermine democratic principles.
The statement also reiterated opposition to capital punishment, describing it as “inhumane and degrading” and lacking any proven deterrent effect.
Rising diplomatic tensions
The development comes amid an ongoing diplomatic rift between Spain and Israel, which has intensified during the conflict in Gaza and wider tensions in the Middle East.
Spain has taken an increasingly critical stance on Israeli policy, including support for international legal action and opposition to recent military escalations in the region. In turn, Israeli officials have accused Spain of bias, further straining relations.
The situation escalated earlier this month when Spain withdrew its ambassador to Israel, signalling a significant deterioration in diplomatic ties.
Historical context
Israel abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes in 1954, with its only execution following a civilian trial being that of Adolf Eichmann in 1962.
The new law represents a significant shift in policy and has reignited debate over human rights, legal equality and the future direction of the Israeli justice system.
Overview
This week across Benidorm, Altea, Albir, Finestrat, and La Nucía is mainly:
Weekly markets and street trading
Live music in bars and small venues
Early spring coastal tourism activity (boat trips, promenades)
Small cultural events and exhibitions
Gradual build-up toward May festivals in Benidorm
BENIDORM – Events and Activity
Markets and street life
Cultural activity
Nightlife and entertainment
Overall feel
Benidorm is in an active pre-summer phase with strong nightlife and steady tourist flow.
ALTEA – Cultural and coastal atmosphere
Live music
Sea activities
Overall feel
Quiet, scenic, and cultural with a strong focus on relaxation rather than nightlife.
ALBIR / ALFÀS DEL PI – Mixed expat and local activity
Markets
Live music
Cultural venues
Overall feel
Balanced area with both relaxed daytime atmosphere and active evenings.
LA NUCÍA – Local and sporting focus
Markets
Sports activity
Large sports complex hosting training camps, tournaments, and weekend events
Overall feel
Quiet residential town with activity concentrated around weekends and sports events.
FINESTRAT – Beach and market lifestyle
Markets
Tuesday and Saturday markets in La Cala area with a mix of local produce and goods
Beachfront activity
Entertainment
Low-key live music in beachfront bars rather than organised events
Overall feel
Relaxed coastal town focused on beach life and casual evenings.
OVERALL SUMMARY
Benidorm: busiest area with nightlife, markets, and entertainment
Altea: cultural, scenic, and relaxed
Albir / Alfàs del Pi: balanced mix of live music and expat social life
La Nucía: local, quiet, and sports-focused
Finestrat: beach-oriented and low-key

Local & Spanish


-ts1694419966.png?ts=1778262739)
