The world of football has been shaken by the heartbreaking news of Suleiman al-Obeid’s death.
The Palestinian footballer, often called the “Palestinian Pele,” was killed in an Israeli attack in Gaza while waiting for humanitarian aid.
Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah has now publicly responded to UEFA’s tribute to al-Obeid, calling for greater clarity and stronger action.
Remembering Suleiman al-Obeid’s Legacy on the Pitch
Suleiman al-Obeid, 41, was a shining light in Palestinian football.
Over his long career, he scored more than 100 goals and represented Palestine’s national team 24 times, netting two goals.
Known for his incredible talent, he earned the nickname “the Palestinian Pele” and inspired countless young footballers despite the hardships in his region.
He was also a family man, survived by his wife and five children.
UEFA Pays Tribute but Faces Criticism from Salah
UEFA released a statement honoring al-Obeid as a “talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.”
However, Mohamed Salah, who has been an outspoken advocate for peace and humanitarian aid in Gaza, felt that the governing body’s tribute didn’t go far enough.
On his social media, Salah questioned UEFA directly, asking, “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” He shared this pointed message on both his X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram accounts, pressing for transparency and acknowledgment of the real tragedy behind the tribute.
Salah’s Continued Advocacy for Gaza’s People
This isn’t the first time Salah has spoken up about the crisis in Gaza.
Back in 2023, after a devastating explosion at Gaza’s al-Ahli Arab Hospital killed nearly 500 people, Salah made an emotional plea to world leaders.
He called for urgent humanitarian aid and an end to the violence, emphasizing that all lives are sacred and must be protected.
His words highlighted the urgent need for food, water, and medical supplies for those suffering in the region.
The Grim Toll on Gaza’s Football Community
According to the Palestine Football Association, the conflict has taken a devastating toll on athletes and sports infrastructure in Gaza.
So far, 421 footballers have died or died from starvation, including 103 children.
On top of this, 288 sports facilities have been damaged or destroyed, further limiting opportunities for youth in the region to find hope and normalcy through sport.
A Call for Humanity and Transparency
Mohamed Salah’s outspoken stance reminds the world that behind the headlines and tributes lie real people and families enduring unimaginable pain.
His demand for answers and justice echoes a wider call for world leaders and organizations to step up and protect innocent lives amid ongoing violence.
As the football community mourns Suleiman al-Obeid, Salah’s voice is a powerful reminder that sports can also be a platform for raising awareness and demanding change.
