Just a few months after celebrating his wedding, Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar has been killed Gaza. The 32-year-old footballer was reported to have died during an Israeli military operation in the town of Al-Qarara, near Khan Younis, as reported by Al Jazeera. His death has caused shock in the football community, both at home and abroad.
Al-Ashqar was more than just a player, he was a newlywed preparing for fatherhood. Married just five months ago, he is survived by his pregnant wife who is expecting their first child. Those close to him remember a dedicated athlete who balanced passion for the game with hope for a solid future.
According to Palestinian The Al-Ashqar Football Association is among the more than 1,000 Palestinian athletes killed since the violence escalated in October 2023. The organization has repeatedly warned of the dire consequences of the war on sports in Gaza, with players, coaches, referees and officials all exposed to the conflict. Sports infrastructure across the region has also suffered extensive damage, leaving little room for normalcy in places where even sports have suffered casualties.
Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar was shot dead by Israeli soldiers in Gaza. Married just five months ago, he leaves behind a wife who is expecting their first child. The Palestinian Football Association has said more than 1,000 Palestinian athletes have been killed since October 2023. pic.twitter.com/Yz6cyblRf3
– Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) 1 July 2026
News of Al-Ashqar’s death has drawn cries of grief from teammates, fans, and the wider sporting world, and tributes have poured in from across the continent.
(Feature Photo Credit: X/@DaniMayakovski)
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