A journalist was injured during violent clashes that broke out on the campus of the University of Navarra in Pamplona on Thursday, October 30. The unrest began when groups of hooded individuals dressed in black, reportedly linked to far-left movements, attempted to disrupt an appearance by journalist and activist Vito Quiles.
Quiles, known for his right-leaning views and social media presence, arrived in the city and organized the talk at the university on his own initiative, without an official invitation from the institution. Although University Rector María Iraburu had announced the suspension of classes for safety reasons, protesters still gathered on campus.
Vito Quiles decided to cancel the gathering for his own safety. However, it quickly provoked confrontations between supporters and opponents, leading to widespread vandalism across the city, including the burning of trash bins.
During the turmoil, journalist José Ismael Martínez, who was reporting from the scene with his press credentials and mobile phone, was attacked by a group of protesters. Videos circulating online show masked individuals throwing stones and bottles at him, chasing him through the streets, and beating him after he fell to the ground. Even as he tried to get up, attackers continued to strike him from behind.
Martínez was later helped by the police and taken for medical attention. The assault has drawn condemnation from press freedom organizations, which have urged authorities to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of journalists covering public events.
At Free Press Alliance, we strongly condemn all forms of violence and intimidation against journalists. Reporting from the field, even amid controversy, is a vital part of press freedom. We call on the Spanish authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into this attack and to guarantee a safe environment for all journalists to carry out their work without fear of reprisal.