Israel's defense minister accused Barcelona star Lamine Yamal of inciting hatred against Israeli soldiers after the 18-year-old waved a Palestinian flag during celebrations for the club's Spanish league title victory. The minister said he would not remain silent over what he described as incitement and called on Barcelona to distance itself from the player's actions.

Yamal was seen holding the flag during an open-top bus parade in Barcelona and later shared images on social media. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said the decision was Yamal's to make, noting that the player is old enough to choose his stance.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola defended Yamal, saying that as a role model followed by millions, a footballer should express his views when necessary and that Yamal should be proud of his position. Some fans and observers also voiced support for the player's right to express solidarity with Palestinians, while global criticism of Israel over the humanitarian impact of the war in Gaza continues to spill into the world of sports.