The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called upon Spanish authorities to urgently investigate an assault on journalist José Ismael Martínez, which took place amidst violent clashes between police and far-left protesters in Pamplona on October 30, 2025. As reported by JURIST News, the CPJ stressed the importance of prosecuting those responsible and ensuring the safety of journalists covering protests.
During the demonstration by Basque separatists, Martínez, a reporter for the online newspaper El Español, was reportedly assaulted by several individuals. Despite clearly displaying his press identification, he was targeted while documenting masked protesters. Reports indicate that he was pelted with objects, verbally abused, and physically attacked, resulting in injuries that required emergency treatment, as described in El Español.
The protest emerged in reaction to a planned event by Vito Quiles, a contentious far-right political activist known for debate-style formats inspired by American figures like the late Charlie Kirk. The event was initially scheduled at the University of Navarra but was canceled due to security concerns. This decision reflects the university’s stance against political activism on campus, as announced publicly by faculty members on social platforms.
In response to the clashes that resulted in arrests and injuries, other academic institutions, such as the University of La Laguna, have also opted to cancel events featuring Quiles. This decision emphasizes their commitment to maintaining campuses as places of respectful dialogue, aligned with human rights principles.
The incident with Martínez highlights broader issues involving the rights of journalists and freedom of expression. Under the European Charter of Fundamental Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights, attacks on journalists represent violations of essential freedoms. Advocacy groups, including the CPJ, continue to pressure for accountability and improved protections for media professionals.