While world enjoys FIFA, Israel kills Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem, wife expecting child

GAZA, Palestine (MNTV) – Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar has been killed in Israeli military fire in Gaza, according to the Palestinian Football Association (PFA), as the Israeli genocide of Palestinians continues to claim the lives of athletes and civilians across the occupied territory.

The PFA confirmed Al-Ashqar’s death, saying he was among hundreds of Palestinian sports figures killed since the war began in October 2023. His death comes as football fans around the world celebrate international competitions, including the ongoing FIFA World Cup.

According to media reports, Al-Ashqar had married just five months ago, and his wife is expecting their first child. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from relatives, teammates, and the wider Palestinian sporting community.

The football association said more than 1,000 Palestinian athletes have been killed during the genocide, including footballers, coaches, referees and sports administrators. 

It added that repeated attacks have also destroyed stadiums and other sporting facilities, bringing domestic competitions and youth development programs to a standstill.

Beyond the loss of lives, the war has devastated Gaza’s sports infrastructure, leaving clubs unable to train or compete while many athletes have been displaced or killed.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has deepened as fighting continues, with international organizations repeatedly calling for the protection of civilians and unrestricted humanitarian access to the territory.