According to the Palestine Football Association (PFA), Al-Obeid, 41, was reportedly among those gathered near an aid distribution point in southern Gaza when Israeli forces opened fire. At least 18 people were killed, including Al-Obeid, as famine and a humanitarian collapse continue to worsen under Israel’s siege.
The PFA mourned Al-Obeid’s death in a statement: “Former national team player and star of the Khadamat Al-Shate’ team, Suleiman Al-Obeid, was martyred after the [Israeli] occupation forces targeted those waiting for humanitarian aid in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday” [6 August].
UEFA also posted the following on Friday on X: “Farewell to Suleiman Al-Obeid, the ‘Palestinian Pele’. A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.”
But the UEFA statement failed to mention the circumstances surrounding the death.
It was left up to Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s Liverpool star, to say what was on the minds of most people. Responding publicly, Salah asked “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” UEFA has yet to comment on Salah’s query.
The Egyptian international has previously called for urgent humanitarian intervention, condemning the violence and demanding aid access for the people of Gaza.
Nicknamed the “Pele of Palestinian football,” Al-Obeid rose to prominence as one of the brightest stars of the game in Gaza. Known for his technical skills and pace, he played 24 international matches with the national team, scoring twice.
Over a long career with clubs in both Gaza and the West Bank, Al-Obeid racked up more than 100 goals, securing his status as one of Palestine’s all-time greats.
The killing of Al-Obeid, who leaves behind a wife and five children, brings the total number of athletes and their family members killed in Gaza since October 2023 to 662, according to the PFA. Football alone has lost 321 figures, including players, coaches, referees, administrators and club board members.
Israel began its military offensive in Gaza after Hamas-led attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 killed 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.
Since then, more than 61,300 people have been killed in Gaza as a result of Israeli military operations.
* A version of this article appears in print in the 14 August, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly
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