This Video Showing a Palestinian Flag Burned in Spain Is Unrelated to the Ongoing Gaza War
The Claim
The flag of so-called Palestine was burned in Spain.
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Recently, social media users have been circulating a video purportedly showing the burning of the Palestinian flag in Spain, claimed by its publishers as a preemptive measure ahead of anticipated Gaza solidarity demonstrations, mirroring those seen at American universities.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the claim and found it to be misleading. The video is outdated and actually depicts clashes between supporters of Palestine and Israeli fans of the Hapoel Holon club during a match in the Spanish city of Bilbao on May 8, 2022.
Misbar also found videos captured from various angles and released on May 8, 2022, depicting clashes between Israeli team supporters and Palestinians in Spain. These videos feature identical individuals, buildings, and landmarks, confirming their authenticity.
Additionally, upon closer examination of the supporters wearing purple attire, it becomes apparent that their clothing matches the same color as the Hapoel Holon team shirts.
Clashes Between Israeli Fans and Pro-Palestinian Supporters in 2022
Spanish media outlets quoted the Security Directorate stating that clashes occurred between supporters of Palestine and fans of the Israeli club Hapoel during the team's visit to Bilbao to attend the Basketball Champions League final held at the Meribella Arena. Despite the confrontations, no injuries or arrests were reported.
Student Arrests Surge on American University Campuses
The circulation of the claim coincided with U.S. police launching a series of arrests and assaults on students who organized solidarity demonstrations with the Gaza Strip at American universities.
The protesters demanded an end to Israel's war on the Gaza Strip, the withdrawal of financial and investment support for the Israeli occupation, and the termination of any collaboration or endorsement between government and academic institutions and Israel and its armed forces.
In recent days, American police have arrested 100 students during protests at Columbia University. Furthermore, students have been detained in Texas, California, Boston, and other U.S. states as they set up camps similar to those used by Columbia University students in solidarity with the Gaza Strip. The New York Police arrested numerous students after raiding the Columbia University campus.
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