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Israel Minister Slams Barcelona Forward’s Palestinian Flag

5/15/2026

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Summary

Katz Condemns

Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned 18-year-old Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal for waving a Palestinian flag during the title parade.
Katz wrote on X that Yamal incites hate against Israel while Israeli soldiers fight Hamas, citing the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.
The parade drew an estimated 750,000 spectators as Yamal posted photos of the flag on Instagram.

Summary

Yamal Tribute

A mural of Lamine Yamal waving the Palestinian flag was painted in a damaged Gaza area as a tribute.
Artist Ubay al-Qurshali said he painted it to thank Yamal for supporting Palestine.
The Palestinian UN mission posted the flag-raising image to its 440,000 X followers.
The Palestine Football Association posted a gratitude message to Yamal.
Barcamania, Barcelona’s Israeli fan group, sent a protest letter calling the act foolish and irresponsible.

History

Historical Context

On October 16 1968, American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos won gold and bronze in the 200 m with a 19.83-second world record and raised black-gloved fists during the U.S. anthem. IOC president Avery Brundage expelled them, igniting a lasting debate over athletes’ political speech. The controversy echoes today as Israel’s defense minister Israel Katz condemned 18-year-old Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal for displaying a Palestinian flag.

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Katz Condemns

Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned 18-year-old Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal for waving a Palestinian flag during the title parade.
Katz wrote on X that Yamal incites hate against Israel while Israeli soldiers fight Hamas, citing the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.
The parade drew an estimated 750,000 spectators as Yamal posted photos of the flag on Instagram.

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