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WorldPublished: 20 July 2026 at 23:37

Spain's World Cup Win Brings Joy to Gaza Amid Conflict

Residents in Gaza celebrated Spain's victory, supporting the team due to its recognition of Palestinian statehood, while Israeli fans backed Argentina.

Foto: The New York Times

In the Gaza Strip, a region long plagued by war and hardship, Spain's World Cup match provided a rare moment of joy and distraction. Many Palestinians in the enclave rooted for Spain, a country that has officially recognized Palestinian statehood, setting it apart from many other nations.

Conversely, among Israeli soccer fans, Argentina enjoyed strong support, reflecting the political divide in the region. The watch parties in Gaza and Israel highlighted how sports can temporarily overshadow deep-seated conflicts.

The exact outcome of the match is not detailed, but the event underscores the power of football to unite or offer a brief escape from reality.

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