Middle East latest: Hundreds gather as hostage remains are buried
The body of Idan was returned Thursday as Hamas handed over what it said were the remains of four Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of more than 600 Palestinian detainees held by Israel. It was the last planned swap of the ceasefire's first phase, which began in January.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Yahoo
Salah challenges UEFA after the death of the Palestinian Pelé
Salah challenges UEFA after the death of the Palestinian Pelé Mohamed Salah has spoken out following the news of the death of Suleiman Obeid, the "Palestinian Pelé," who was killed at the age of 41 while waiting for humanitarian aid. According to the Palestinian Football Association, Suleiman Obeid was shot by Israeli forces as he awaited humanitarian assistance. UEFA announced his passing with a solemn message, paying tribute to a player who gave hope to countless children despite adversity. This announcement prompted a swift reaction from Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian Liverpool star. On X, he directly addressed UEFA: Tell us how he died, where, and why? The death of Suleiman Obeid highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and has triggered a strong emotional response in the football world, where he was recognized not only for his talent but also for his symbolic role. Salah's message thus expresses profound pain and a demand for truth in the face of a tragedy that goes far beyond the football pitch.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Mohamed Salah Receives Backing Over Condemnation of UEFA's Tribute to Suleiman Al-Obeid
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.
2 days ago
Salah questions UEFA's 'farewell' to former Palestine soccer player Suleiman Obeid
CAIRO -- Mohamed Salah is questioning UEFA's 'farewell' to former Palestinian soccer player Suleiman Obeid who was reportedly shot and killed by Israeli forces while awaiting aid in Gaza. 'Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?' Salah asked on the social network X in response to a post from UEFA saying, 'Farewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the 'Palestinian Pele.' A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.' Obeid, 41, was fatally shot by Israeli forces on Wednesday while he was waiting among crowds for aid near a distribution site in southern Gaza, the Palestine Football Association said. He leaves behind a wife and five children. The Associated Press could not independently verify the account. Obeid played 24 games for Palestine, scoring two goals, while he scored more than 100 over his career with local clubs, said the PFA, which described him as 'one of the brightest stars of Palestinian football.' The PFA published a letter attributed to Aleksander Čeferin in which the UEFA president said he was 'deeply saddened by the tragic death' of Obeid, who was 'more than just a footballer. He was proof that joy, skill, and pride can flourish despite suffering. His talent and dedication to the game gave the children of Gaza and beyond reason to believe in a brighter tomorrow. His passing is a great loss to the world of football and to everyone who understands the power of sport to inspire.' Israeli military spokesman Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani replied to Salah on X: 'Hey Mohamed, After an initial review, we found no records of any incidents involving Suleiman al-Obeid. In order to take a closer look, we need more details.' The PFA said Obeid's death brings to 662 the number of Palestinian athletes and sporting officials killed since the 22-month war started. The U.N. human rights office said last month that some 1,400 Palestinians have been killed seeking aid in Gaza since May, nearly all by Israeli fire. Israel's air and ground campaign has killed tens of thousands of people in Gaza, displaced most of the population, destroyed vast areas and pushed the territory toward famine. Hamas-led militants triggered the war when they stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and abducting 251 people.
