Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has publicly praised Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, saying the teenager made the nation "proud" after waving a Palestinian flag during a La Liga title celebration.
The 18-year-old forward brandished the flag on an open-top bus parade through Barcelona Monday after the club secured its second straight league title.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz accused Yamal of inciting hatred against Israel, urging Barcelona to distance itself from the act.
Sánchez responded on X, stating anyone who considers waving a state flag incitement has either lost their minds or is blinded by disgrace.
"Lamine just expressed the solidarity with Palestine that millions of Spaniards feel," wrote Sánchez.
In Gaza, artists have created a mural depicting Yamal with the Palestinian flag on rubble at a refugee camp.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said he didn't like Yamal's actions but accepted it was his decision.
Relations between Spain and Israel have deteriorated since October 2023, with Madrid recognizing a Palestinian state in 2024.