The killing of Palestinian football legend Suleiman Al-Obeid in an Israeli airstrike has sparked outrage across the global sports community. Mohamed Salah and others have condemned UEFA’s muted tribute, calling for truth and accountability.
The killing of Suleiman Al-Obeid, revered as the “Palestinian Pelé”, has sent shockwaves through the global football and sports community. The 41-year-old forward, one of Palestine’s most celebrated players, was killed in an Israeli airstrike while waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza, according to the Palestine Football Association (PFA).
Al-Obeid’s death is not just a national tragedy for Palestine, but a loss mourned by athletes, fans, and sports bodies worldwide. Known for his dazzling footwork, leadership, and dedication, he became a symbol of hope for young players growing up under siege.
Mohamed Salah Leads Condemnation
Liverpool and Egypt star Mohamed Salah, the highest-profile Arab player in global football, publicly called out UEFA for its muted tribute. The European football body posted a short statement praising Al-Obeid as “a talent who gave hope to countless children,” but did not mention the cause of his death.
Salah’s reply was direct:
“Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?”
The post went viral, garnering over 840,000 likes within hours and sparking a heated debate about the responsibility of sports institutions to speak candidly about the violence affecting athletes.
Widespread Mourning and Anger
The PFA confirmed that Al-Obeid, a father of five from Gaza City, had played 24 official matches for the national team, scoring two goals, and netted more than 100 goals at club level.
Since October 7, 2023, Palestinian officials say over 800 athletes, including 421 footballers, have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza.
Sports journalists, fan groups, and human rights organisations have condemned the killing, demanding international protection for athletes in war zones. Social media was flooded with images of Al-Obeid in his white and red national team jersey, alongside messages of solidarity from across the football world.
UEFA Under Pressure
UEFA’s initial statement has faced intense criticism for omitting details about Al-Obeid’s death. The PFA later shared what it said was a private condolence message from UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin, which described Al-Obeid as an inspiration but again did not directly reference the Israeli strike.
Critics argue that by avoiding the truth, sports bodies risk sanitising the realities of war — effectively silencing the very communities they claim to support.
A Legacy Cut Short
Nicknamed the “Palestinian Pelé” for his skill, agility, and attacking flair, Suleiman Al-Obeid’s career began in Gaza’s local leagues before he rose to the national stage. Even in the midst of hardship, he inspired countless children to chase their dreams with a football at their feet.
In his own words, once quoted in a 2018 interview:
“Football gave me freedom, even if just for 90 minutes.”
Now, his death stands as yet another reminder of the human cost of Gaza’s ongoing siege, and of the urgency voiced by players like Salah for justice and peace.
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