Israeli probe into death of Palestinian national soccer team star in Gaza: 'No casualties from IDF fire on that date'
The IDF addressed for the first time on Sunday reports that Palestinian national football team star Suleiman al-Obaid was killed, allegedly by army fire, at an aid distribution center in the southern Gaza Strip four days earlier.
“A preliminary and thorough examination found no known casualties as a result of IDF fire in the areas of the distribution centers in the Gaza Strip on August 6,” the statement read.
The death of al-Obaid, nicknamed “the Palestinian Pelé,” reached millions of football fans worldwide.
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) posted on its official 𝕏 account: “A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.”
Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, of England’s Liverpool FC, shared UEFA’s post, writing, “Can you tell us how he died and why?”
IDF Spokesperson for International Media, Lt.-Col. Nadav Shoshani, replied to Salah: “Hi Mohamed, after an initial review, we have found no record of any incidents involving Suleiman al-Obaid. In order to examine the matter more closely, we need additional details.”
Former French footballer and Manchester United star, Eric Cantona, also commented on al-Obaid’s death, writing, “Israel killed the Palestinian national team star while he was waiting for aid in Rafah. How much longer can this genocide go on?”
Itay is a military correspondent for KAN 11.
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