Palestinian football star killed, the Palestinian Football Association said, confirming that Suleiman al-Obeid, also known as the “Palestinian Pelé,” was shot dead by Israeli forces in Gaza. The 41-year-old former national team player was reportedly among civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in the southern Gaza Strip when Israeli troops opened fire.
The Palestinian Football Association said Obeid was a key figure in Palestinian sports, having played 24 international matches. And scored over 100 goals during his career. He was a standout player for Khadamat Al-Shati club in Gaza and also played in the West Bank for Al-Amari Youth Center. His death is one of many in the sports community. Over 321 footballers have been killed since the start of the war, the association added.
The Palestinian football star killed. The PFA emphasized, was simply trying to survive amid a hunger crisis that has gripped Gaza. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 12,000 children under five are suffering from acute malnutrition in the besieged territory. Since late May, over 1,300 Palestinians seeking food aid have reportedly been killed by Israeli forces.
In 2010, Obeid was among six Gaza-based national players blocked at the Jordan border due to Israeli travel restrictions. “Any athlete dreams of wearing his national jersey.” He said at the time, hoping for freedom and dignity like athletes elsewhere.
Born in Gaza City, Obeid was married and the father of five. His legacy as a football legend and national icon lives on, even as the war continues to claim innocent lives.
