Gaza’s fields fall silent: 39 athletes and scouts killed in July alone
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Güneşli
13 oC
Güneşli
Gaza’s vibrant sports and scouting communities are in mourning as Israel’s relentless military onslaught claimed the lives of 39 athletes, scouts, and youth leaders in July alone, pushing the death toll of these community pillars to over 656 since the brutal assault began in October 2023, according to Palestinian sports federations.
Among the martyrs are beloved figures like footballer Ismail Abu Dan, a symbol of resilience, and Sami Al-Helou of Al-Tuffah Club, both cut down by Israeli attacks. Emad Yousef Al-Hawajri of Rabat Club, Shuja’iyya’s former star Emad Al-Abed Al-Fayoumi, and Ahmed Ali Asaad Salah of Shabab Al-Khader were also killed, their dreams of inspiring through sport extinguished. The scouting community grieves for Iman Mohammad Harz of the Peace Scouts and Guides Group, killed in a merciless airstrike, alongside boxer Ahmad Bakhit, gunned down, and handball player Mohammad Omar Abdullah Abu Abdu.
In a particularly heartrending loss, Asaad Abu Shouqa, Vice President of the Palestinian Karate Federation, was killed while displaced, having already endured the unimaginable loss of his home, daughter, and grandchildren to Israel’s campaign.
The Palestinian Football Association reported the heaviest losses, underscoring the deliberate targeting of Gaza’s sports sector. Stadiums, training grounds, and youth centers—beacons of hope and unity—now lie in ruins or deserted under Israel’s siege. “Sports embody Palestinian resilience and dreams for a free future,” a local official declared. “Israel’s war is systematically crushing that spirit.”
As Gaza’s people endure relentless bombardment and a suffocating blockade, the slaughter of these athletes and youth leaders is a stark reminder of Israel’s assault on Palestinian culture, hope, and survival. The international community must act to stop this devastation and protect Gaza’s future. (ILKHA)
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