Former Palestinian national team star Suleiman Al-Obeid, known as the "Palestinian Pele," was killed at age 41 by an Israeli strike while waiting for humanitarian aid in the southern Gaza Strip. Al-Obeid scored over 100 goals for Gaza Sport and was celebrated for his memorable scissor kick goal against Yemen in the 2010 West Asian Football Federation championship. He debuted for the Palestinian national team in 2007, earned 24 caps, and scored twice during his international career. He played for clubs such as Khadamat al-Shati and Markaz Shabab al-Am'ari.
The Palestine Football Association announced Al-Obeid's death on August 6, 2025, highlighting that since October 2023, at least 662 people connected to sports—including 321 from football—have died amid ongoing conflict. Al-Obeid left behind a wife and five children.
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah criticized UEFA for its tribute to Al-Obeid, which failed to mention the circumstances of his death or condemn the Israeli attack. UEFA's social media post described Al-Obeid simply as "a talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times," omitting that he was killed while waiting for aid in Gaza. Salah responded, asking UEFA to clarify how, where, and why Al-Obeid died. Salah, an outspoken advocate for humanitarian aid and a Gaza ceasefire, has repeatedly called attention to the crisis.
The Palestine national team is scheduled to play a friendly against Malaysia on September 8 as preparation for the third round of Asian World Cup qualifying. Al-Obeid's death has become a symbol of the tragic impact of conflict on Palestinian athletes and the broader community.
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