Spain‘s World Cup victory has sparked celebrations across the Gaza Strip, where football fans defied the threat of airstrikes to cheer for a team they view as allies in their struggle for rights.
Gathered in cafes and at outdoor screenings, Palestinians waved Spanish flags to honour the new world champions. Their support stems from Spain’s vocal criticism of Israel’s military actions and a gesture by teenage star Lamine Yamal, who carried a Palestinian flag during Barcelona’s La Liga title celebrations in May.
Flags and Political Divides
The Barcelona winger’s display drew sharp criticism from Israel’s defence minister, who accused him of “inciting hatred”. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez swiftly defended the 17-year-old, stating: “Lamine has only expressed the solidarity with Palestine that is felt by millions of us in Spain. Another reason to be proud of him.”
The political dimension of the final extended to the highest levels of government. While Gaza crowds backed Spain, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly supported Argentina, posting a good-luck message for the team before the match. Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, has cultivated close ties with the Israeli leader.
The Gaza al-Irada amputee football team captured the mood in a pre-game message to Spain: “Whoever raises the Palestinian flag deserves to raise the World Cup.”
Watching Amid Destruction
For many in Gaza, following the tournament required extraordinary effort. Most of the territory’s two million residents now live in temporary camps after attacks destroyed their homes, with limited access to electricity or internet.
Saadi al-Masri, captain of the amputee team, watched the final at a packed cafe. “I support Spain because we see it as a country that stands with the Palestinian cause and supports Palestinian rights,” he said. He described the victory as a rare moment of joy, though fear of attacks prevented late-night street parties.
Arkan al-Walaida, 23, relied on morning visits to internet cafes to catch highlights on social media. “Honestly, I felt like I was about to cry from happiness,” she said upon learning Spain had won. “We see their support as a sign of humanity.”
Tragedy Strikes Organiser
The celebrations were overshadowed by the death of Mohamed al-Wahidi, a Palestinian aid worker who had organised World Cup screenings in Gaza. An Israeli strike killed him in early July, shortly before the game between Egypt and Argentina. The attack also killed brothers aged eight and ten, and another man. The Israeli military confirmed the attack but stated it had not targeted al-Wahidi.
Spain’s government has pushed for stronger European Union action over human rights violations, including suspension of a broad free trade pact. This diplomatic stance, alongside its criticism of violence in the occupied West Bank, has cemented the team’s status in Gaza as symbols of solidarity rather than merely sporting rivals.