Mohamed Salah Receives Backing Over Condemnation of UEFA's Tribute to Suleiman Al-Obeid

Yahoo

a day ago

Salah Joins Voices Condemning Uefa's Tribute to the 'Palestinian Pele'
Footballing icon Mohamed Salah has joined a growing chorus of condemnation against Uefa's recent tribute to Suleiman Al-Obeid, who was posthumously honoured as the 'Palestinian Pele'. Al-Obeid, a beloved figure in Palestinian football, tragically lost his life in the Gaza Strip at the hands of Israeli forces, according to reports from the Palestine Football Association (PFA).
Salah, who has consistently used his platform to raise awareness of humanitarian issues, voiced his frustration over Uefa's failure to acknowledge the circumstances surrounding Al-Obeid's death. The governing body posted a tribute on social media, remembering the late footballer's talent and impact. However, Salah's poignant response pointed out the oversight, asking, 'Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?' His message quickly gained traction, with millions of social media users taking note.
Uefa's Silence Sparks Outrage
Uefa's tribute, shared on X (formerly Twitter), called Al-Obeid a 'talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times'. While the words recognised his legacy, they fell short of acknowledging the brutal nature of his death, which has left many questioning the integrity of the tribute. Gary Lineker, former England striker, echoed Salah's concerns in an Instagram post, sharing an article about the backlash and writing, 'We can't hear you, Uefa'. Similarly, former politician Jeremy Corbyn supported Salah's call for greater transparency, adding his own statement, 'Well said Mo!'.
The silence from Uefa regarding the cause of Al-Obeid's death – as well as the wider context of the Gaza conflict – has intensified global scrutiny. The outcry has highlighted the disconnect between corporate football institutions and the ongoing crisis in Palestine, an issue that continues to divide opinion internationally.
Mohamed Salah: A Voice for Palestine
This is not the first time Salah has spoken out about the violence in Palestine. Last October, the Liverpool forward shared a heartfelt message calling for peace and the protection of all lives amid the escalating violence in Gaza. 'It is not always easy to speak in times like this. There has been too much violence and too much heartbreak and brutality,' Salah wrote in an Instagram post. His words resonated with his millions of followers, particularly those from the Arab world, where his influence extends far beyond the football pitch.
Salah's influence has undoubtedly made him one of the most recognised voices in sports activism. He has been unwavering in his support for Palestinian rights, even as political and public opinion on the matter remains deeply divided.
Al-Obeid's Legacy and the Tragedy of Gaza
Suleiman Al-Obeid's death, as a casualty in the Gaza Strip, adds to the already devastating toll the region has experienced during the ongoing conflict. The 41-year-old had been an active figure in Palestinian football, making 24 appearances for the national team and scoring twice. His tragic end came as he waited for aid in Gaza, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by Palestinians, who are caught in the crossfire of geopolitical turmoil.
Since Al-Obeid's death, reports have emerged detailing the tragic loss of numerous lives in Gaza as humanitarian aid convoys have come under attack. At least 38 individuals were killed while attempting to receive aid, according to local health officials. Such acts of violence, in the midst of a humanitarian crisis, have further sparked global outrage and calls for accountability.
Salah's condemnation of Uefa's tribute, alongside the support of figures like Lineker and Corbyn, shines a spotlight on the responsibility of sporting organisations to engage with the real-world issues that affect the players, fans, and communities they represent. His message serves as a reminder of the broader political struggles that transcend the football pitch.