Barcelona's teenage football sensation Lamine Yamal has come under fire from Israel's defence minister after he was seen waving a Palestinian flag during the club's Spanish league title parade through Barcelona on Monday. Israel Katz, the defence minister, publicly condemned Yamal's action on Thursday, labelling it as an incitement to hatred against Israel.
Minister's Condemnation
Katz stated that Yamal chose to “incite hate” while Israeli soldiers were combating Hamas, an organisation he accused of committing atrocities on 7 October 2023. The incident unfolds against a backdrop of significant criticism from Spain's government and a large segment of its population regarding Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Global Backlash
This event is part of a growing global backlash against Israel over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with protests extending into the realms of sport and culture. The teenage star's gesture has drawn both support and criticism, highlighting the deep divisions over the conflict.
Yamal, who has been a key player for Barcelona this season, has not commented on the incident. The club has also remained silent on the matter.
