Spanish PM Sanchez voices support for Lamine Yamal after raising Palestinian flag
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez addressed the ongoing Middle East conflict and Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state on Tuesday, shortly after FC Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal prominently displayed a Palestinian flag during the club’s La Liga title celebrations.
Sánchez’s remarks, delivered during a joint press conference in Madrid, appeared to align with the spirit of the young player’s public gesture.
When questioned about Yamal waving the flag amid the victory parade, Sánchez emphasized Spain’s position. “Spain has recognised the state of Palestine,” he stated.
The Prime Minister reiterated Spain’s consistent stance: condemning Hamas attacks from the outset while strongly criticizing ‘Israeli’ actions in Gaza, which he described as genocide, alongside the illegal settlements in the West Bank.
Sánchez added that the time had come to ensure compliance with international law, facilitate humanitarian access, and advance a political horizon for peaceful coexistence.
“Palestine has a right to exist, as we have always said that the State of Israel does,” he affirmed, reinforcing Spain’s 2024 recognition of Palestinian statehood.
The 18-year-old Yamal, a rising star for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, raised the large Palestinian flag for several minutes during the open-top bus parade on Monday, following Barcelona’s 2-0 El Clásico victory over Real Madrid that secured the title. He personally requested the flag from fans after spotting while touring in the bus.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick noted that while he generally prefers to separate football from politics, he respects Yamal’s maturity to make his own decisions.
