The Sanfermines 2025 have officially begun! However, this year’s traditional Chupinazo, which annually captivates thousands, was marked by an unusually strong political message. Representatives from the platform Yala Nafarroa were given the honor of igniting the opening rocket, and they used the opportunity to send a clear signal of solidarity.
“Stop the Genocide” – A Cry That Resonates Beyond Pamplona
Before the iconic fuse was lit, cries like “Stop the Genocide” and “For a Free Palestine” echoed across the crowded Town Hall Square. Lidón Soriano Segarra, Eduardo Ibero Albo, and Dyna Kharrat Juanbeltz of Yala Nafarroa conveyed this urgent message, addressed to the international community. Among the traditionally red-clad festival-goers, numerous Palestinian flags, Ikurriñas, and banners were visible, not only calling for independence but also clearly referencing the situation in Palestine. Even on some balconies, banners prominently displayed the clear demand: “Stop the Genocide.”
¡Alto al genocidio, Palestina libre!
— Palestina Hoy (@Palestinahoy01) July 6, 2025
Activistas corean consignas por Palestina durante las fiestas de San Fermín en Pamplona. pic.twitter.com/k2T51DEW9W
Mayor Asiron “Proud” of Message of Humanity
Joseba Asiron, the mayor of Pamplona and chairman of EH Bildu, expressed his “pride” in statements to Efe regarding the dissemination of a message “of solidarity, reason, and humanity.” This occurred precisely during the “sweetest moment” of Navarra’s capital. The conscious decision to have Yala Nafarroa launch the Chupinazo underscores the political stance of the city administration and its support for the concerns advocated by the platform.
Israel’s Embassy Outraged: “Deep Disgust” Over Anti-Israeli Platform
However, the political message of the Chupinazo immediately sparked concern and outrage in Israel. The Israeli Embassy in Spain expressed its “deep disgust at the decision of the Pamplona City Council to select the anti-Israeli platform Yala Nafarroa to launch the Chupinazo of the Sanfermines 2025″ in a statement via social media.
The embassy further emphasized: “It is intolerable that Spanish institutions support individuals or groups that aim to incite hatred against Israel and in no way contribute to peace.” They also strongly warned that “this obsession against the Jewish state, especially when protected by public institutions, further fuels the growing extent of antisemitism.” The diplomatic reaction highlights the sensitivity of the situation and the international implications of such a gesture during a world-renowned festival.
