Tragic Loss in Palestinian Football: Suleiman al-Obeid Killed in Gaza Airstrike
Suleiman al-Obeid, a prominent figure in Palestinian football, tragically lost his life amidst ongoing violence in Gaza. Renowned as the "Pele of Palestinian football," al-Obeid was killed on a fateful Wednesday while waiting for humanitarian aid near an assistance distribution center in southern Gaza. The Palestinian Football Association confirmed his death, emphasizing his status as a beloved athlete.
At 41 years of age, al-Obeid had a prolific career, netting over 100 goals and earning accolades as one of the sport’s brightest stars in Palestine. Known for his incredible skills on the field, he began his journey with the Khadamat al-Shati club in Gaza before advancing to play for Al-Amari Youth Center Club in the occupied West Bank. His international appearances include 24 matches for the Palestinian national team, with a standout moment being a breathtaking scissor-kick goal against Yemen during the 2010 West Asian Football Federation Championship.
The impact of al-Obeid’s death extends beyond talent; the Palestinian Football Association lamented the loss of a former national team player and a dedicated member of the Khadamat al-Shati squad. His passing raises the toll of fatalities among Palestinian athletes and their families to 662 since the onset of hostilities in October 2023, with 321 of these deaths linked to football—a painful reminder of the sport’s intertwining with the harsh realities of life in Gaza.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, more than 1,300 Palestinians have reportedly died near aid sites managed by the heavily scrutinized Gaza Humanitarian Foundation since its operations began in late May. On the same day of al-Obeid’s death, 18 individuals tragically lost their lives while seeking aid, reflective of the severe restrictions on humanitarian supplies imposed by Israel.
Al-Obeid leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and five children, underscoring the personal toll of these ongoing escalations. Gaza’s health officials continue to report cases of famine and malnutrition, with recent figures reflecting a tragic rise in hunger-related deaths, particularly among children.
As Israel’s military actions persist, the global community watches with growing concern, questioning the ongoing involvement of international football organizations in these tumultuous circumstances.