Palestinians in Gaza celebrate Spain's World Cup victory over solidarity

Palestinians across Gaza celebrated Spain's World Cup victory, gathering in cafes and outdoor screenings despite the risk of Israeli attacks, in a display of gratitude for Spain's vocal support for Palestinian rights during Israel's war on Gaza. Source: The Guardian

Reasons for Support

Many Palestinians saw Spain as a symbol of solidarity. Spanish teenager Lamine Yamal, who raised a Palestinian flag during Barcelona's La Liga celebrations, became a hero. The Gaza al-Irada amputee football team sent a video message: "Whoever raises the Palestinian flag deserves to raise the World Cup." Source: The Guardian Saadi al-Masri, a captain of the amputee team, said: "I support Spain because we see it as a country that stands with the Palestinian cause and supports Palestinian rights." Source: The Guardian

Contrast with Israeli Position

Israel's government backed Argentina, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posting a good luck message before the final, reflecting his close ties with Argentina's far-right president Javier Milei. Source: The Guardian The Palestinian delegation to the UN responded by posting an image of the Spanish team under the headline "world champions." Source: The Guardian

Challenges During the Tournament

Despite the joy, fear of airstrikes muted celebrations. An Israeli bomb killed Mohamed al-Wahidi, a Palestinian aid worker who organized World Cup screenings, along with two children. Source: The Guardian Many residents, living in tent camps with limited power and internet, struggled to follow matches. Arkan al-Walaida said: "Honestly, I felt like I was about to cry from happiness" upon learning Spain had won. Source: The Guardian