Israel’s defense minister accuses Barca’s Lamine Yamal of inciting hate against Israeli soldiers
BEIRUT: Israel’s defense minister on Thursday accused Barcelona’s superstar Lamine Yamal of inciting hate against Israeli soldiers after he waved a Palestinian flag while his club celebrated winning the La Liga title.
“Lamine Yamal chose to incite against Israel and foment hatred while our soldiers are fighting the terrorist organization Hamas … I will not remain silent in the face of incitement against Israel and against the Jewish people,” Israel Katz wrote on X.
On Monday, the 18-year-old Spanish right winger was spotted waving a Palestinian flag during an open-top bus parade as the team celebrated winning the Spanish 2025/2026 title.
Yamal, who is already widely regarded as one of the best soccer players in the world, held the flag as the team bus toured across Barcelona. He also posted pictures of himself holding it on his Instagram account.
