Linking Spain’s World Cup victory to Palestine and Iran, Hamas and Houthis offer praise

Spain's recent World Cup victory has garnered praise from various groups, including Iran, Hamas, and Yemen's Houthi rebels, who linked the win to Spain's critical stance on Israel's actions in Gaza and its support for Palestinian statehood. Iran's top negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated the victory "not only made the hearts of the Spanish people happy, but also the hearts of many free and independent and justice-loving nations of the world." Gazans were seen celebrating the win, with Hamas official Basem Naim saying, "We congratulate Spain on its deserved World Cup win, and we congratulate Palestine and its supporters on their joy." This support follows Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's outspoken criticism of Israel's military campaign and an incident where Spanish forward Lamine Yamal celebrated with a Palestinian flag.