As Spain Reaches the World Cup Final, Here’s How It Has Supported Palestine

As Spain celebrates an incredible run to the FIFA World Cup final, many across the Arab world have found themselves cheering the team on for more than just its football. Over the past few years, Spain has become one of Europe’s strongest voices in support of Palestine, with its government, public figures, football stars, and thousands of citizens repeatedly speaking out amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Here’s how Spain has consistently shown its support through public displays of solidarity on and off the pitch.

Spain Officially Recognized the State of Palestine

In May 2024, Spain officially recognized the State of Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital, alongside Ireland and Norway. The move marked one of the most significant diplomatic decisions by a major European nation in recent years.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has continued to call for an end to the war in Gaza on multiple international platforms. Speaking at the Arab League Summit in Baghdad as the guest of honor, he addressed Arab leaders and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, saying:

Palestine is bleeding before our eyes. What is unfolding in Gaza and the West Bank cannot go unnoticed—whether in Europe or anywhere else in the world.

Thousands of Spaniards Have Taken to the Streets

Support for Palestine has extended far beyond politicians and celebrities. Across Spain, tens of thousands of people have joined demonstrations calling for a ceasefire and greater international action.

In 2024, solidarity platform Shabaka organized nationwide protests under the slogan, “Let’s stop the genocide in Palestine.” Madrid hosted the largest demonstration, with the Spanish government estimating around 25,000 participants.

Acknowledging the public response, Sánchez said during a Socialist Party conference in Galicia: “We are also with all of them.”, referring to the thousands of people who had gathered across Spanish cities and towns to call for recognition of the Palestinian state and an end to the war in the Middle East.

Lamine Yamal’s Palestinian Flag Became a Global Talking Point

In May 2026, Spanish football sensation Lamine Yamal made headlines around the world when he waved a Palestinian flag during FC Barcelona’s open-top bus parade celebrating the club’s La Liga title.

The moment quickly spread across social media, sparking both praise and criticism while becoming one of the most talked-about images of the celebrations. Regardless of the divided reactions, Yamal’s gesture added another high-profile Spanish voice expressing solidarity with Palestine.

Pedro Sánchez Publicly Defended Lamine Yamal

After criticism from members of the Israeli government over Yamal’s gesture, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez publicly defended the young footballer.

Speaking in support of him, Sánchez said:

I’m still waiting for the right time to show solidarity with Lamine Yamal, who has been criticized by Netanyahu’s government for waving the Palestinian flag. All our support to him and to the Palestinian people. And all our rejection of human rights violations.

His comments reinforced Spain’s official position and its continued support for the Palestinian people.

Javier Bardem Has Been One of Spain’s Loudest Voices

Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem has long been one of Spain’s most outspoken supporters of Palestine.

Over the years, he has used major international platforms, including the Academy Awards and the Cannes Film Festival, to call attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Beyond speeches, Bardem has also been seen attending football matches while carrying the Palestinian flag.

During Spain’s World Cup semi-final against France, he once again appeared with the flag, sending a clear message of solidarity while declaring:

Spain stands with Palestine.

More Than Football

Spain’s journey to the World Cup final has captured the attention of football fans everywhere, but for many, the admiration goes beyond what happens on the pitch. Through diplomatic decisions, public statements, peaceful demonstrations, and acts of solidarity from some of the country’s biggest names, Spain has consistently kept Palestine in the conversation.

As the team prepares for football’s biggest stage, many supporters are celebrating not only its performances on the field, but also the values and voices that have resonated far beyond the game.

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