Mohamed Salah has raised questions about UEFA’s tribute to Suleiman Obeid, a former Palestinian soccer player reportedly shot and killed by Israeli forces while waiting for aid in Gaza. Salah asked on the social media platform X, “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” in response to UEFA’s message honoring Obeid as the “Palestinian Pele,” praising his talent and the hope he inspired in children even during difficult times.
Obeid, aged 41, was fatally shot on Wednesday near an aid distribution site in southern Gaza, according to the Palestine Football Association (PFA). He is survived by his wife and five children. While the account has not been independently verified, the PFA described Obeid as “one of the brightest stars of Palestinian football,” noting that he played 24 games for Palestine and scored two goals, with over 100 goals scored throughout his career in local clubs.
In a letter published by the PFA, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin expressed deep sorrow over Obeid’s tragic death, calling him “more than just a footballer” and highlighting how his talent and commitment gave hope to children in Gaza and beyond. Čeferin emphasized that Obeid’s passing is a significant loss for football and for all who believe in the power of sport to inspire.
The PFA reported that Obeid’s death raises the number of Palestinian athletes and sports officials killed since the 22-month conflict began to 662. According to the United Nations human rights office, nearly 1,400 Palestinians have died while seeking aid in Gaza since May, almost all due to Israeli fire.
The ongoing Israeli air and ground campaign has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths in Gaza, widespread displacement, massive destruction, and pushed the region towards famine. The conflict was triggered when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and abducting 251.
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