Soccer star of Palestinian origin meets tragic demise while waiting for assistance, according to the soccer association's statement
Palestinian Football Star Suleiman Al-Obeid Killed in Gaza
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, Suleiman Al-Obeid, a celebrated Palestinian footballer and the "Palestinian Pelé," was tragically killed at the age of 41[1][2][3][4]. Al-Obeid was killed while waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza on August 6, 2025[1][3].
Al-Obeid was a prominent figure in both Gaza clubs and the Palestinian national team, scoring over 100 career goals and inspiring countless young Palestinians through football[2][3]. His family mourns the loss of a dream that he had hoped to continue playing until age 50[3].
The circumstances of Al-Obeid's death serve as a stark reminder of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Many Palestinians have been killed or injured while waiting for aid during the conflict[1]. The United Nations has reported severe famine conditions in Gaza, with thousands of deaths since late 2023, including over 300 affiliated with Palestinian football[1].
The news of Al-Obeid's death prompted tributes and controversy. UEFA issued a brief tribute on Twitter, but the omission of the cause of death led to public criticism, notably by Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah, who demanded clarity on how and why he died[1][2][5]. The Palestine Football Association has emphasised the heavy toll the conflict has taken on Palestinian athletes and sports personnel overall[1].
Al-Obeid's death has been a profound loss for the Palestinian sports community. He was considered one of the greatest football talents in Palestine's history and a symbol of hope and resilience amid adversity[3]. His killing amid a humanitarian crisis has also intensified calls for international attention to the plight of Palestinian civilians and athletes affected by the conflict[1].
Al-Obeid began his career at the Al-Shati'a Services Club in Gaza and later moved to the Gaza Sporting Club for one season[1]. He won the title of the first edition of the Palestinian Professional League in the 2010-2011 season while at the Al-Amari Youth Center[1]. Al-Obeid was also named the top scorer in the league during the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 seasons[1].
The Israel Defense Forces did not immediately respond to ABC News' requests for comment on Al-Obeid's death[1]. The Palestinian Football Association made the announcement of Al-Obeid's death in a statement in Arabic[1]. The picture accompanying UEFA's tribute to Al-Obeid was a fitting tribute to the Gazelle, Black Pearl, and Palestinian Pele[1].
[1] ABC News [2] The Guardian [3] The New York Times [4] BBC News [5] Mohamed Salah's Twitter account
Suleiman Al-Obeid, a revered footballer in European-leagues and Palestinian clubs, was tragically killed at the age of 41, marking a significant loss for the European football community as well as the Palestinian sports community. Despite his accomplishments on the field, including over 100 career goals, Al-Obeid was killed while waiting for humanitarian aid in southern Gaza, highlighting the ongoing crisis in the region.
