Diplomatic dispute over Lamine Yamal's Palestinian flag display

Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal faced criticism from Israel's Minister of Defense, Israel Katz, after displaying a Palestinian flag during FC Barcelona's La Liga victory parade on May 12, 2026. Minister Katz accused Yamal of inciting hatred against Israel and supporting Hamas, referencing the October 7 attacks. He urged FC Barcelona to publicly distance itself from the player's actions, stating he would not remain silent regarding such incitement. In response, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez defended Yamal, dismissing the accusations of hate speech. Sanchez stated that expressing solidarity with Palestine is a sentiment shared by millions of Spaniards and expressed pride in the player. The exchange highlights the ongoing international tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza.