On Sunday, July 20th, 2026, Spain won the FIFA World Cup final by defeating Argentina, a victory that sparked celebrations across Spain, including a million-strong crowd in Madrid. Tragically, a 13-year-old boy died in a fountain collapse during the celebrations.

Iran has publicly praised Spain’s World Cup win, framing it as a source of joy for critics of the United States and Israel. Iranian officials highlighted Spain’s recent political stance, including its government’s condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza and criticism of US-Israel policies towards Iran.

Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated, “The behaviour of the Spanish national team and Spain’s stance in general in recent months in opposing aggression, genocide and oppression was valuable.” Additionally, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf remarked, “The players’ defence of the Palestinian people and the support of Spain for Iran … showed that freedom and assertiveness are characteristics of that intelligent and respectful nation.”

On social media, Spain’s victory appeared to resonate with people worldwide who support these political views. Conversely, Israeli politicians and football fans backed Argentina, whose president Javier Milei is known for his vocal support of Israel’s policies.

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