Suleiman al-Obeid, celebrated as the “Pele of Palestinian football,” has been killed in an Israeli strike on people gathered for aid in southern Gaza.
The 41-year-old forward was known for his dazzling skill and prolific scoring, with more than 100 goals over a career that inspired countless young players.
His nickname was a tribute to Brazilian legend Edson Arantes do Nascimento, simply known as Pelé, whose artistry on the pitch changed football forever.
For many in Gaza, al-Obeid was their own version of that magic.
Palestinian Pele dies in Gaza seeking aid
On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, al-Obeid joined crowds waiting near an aid distribution centre when Israeli forces opened fire.
The Palestinian Football Association confirmed his death, saying,
“Former national team player and star of the Khadamat al-Shati team, Suleiman Al-Obeid, was martyred after the [Israeli] occupation forces targeted those waiting for humanitarian aid in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday.”
He leaves behind a wife and five children. His passing adds to the growing toll of lives lost in the sports community since the conflict began: 662 athletes and relatives have died in Gaza, including 321 linked directly to football.
Suleiman al-Obeid’s football career and legacy
Al-Obeid began his journey at Khadamat al-Shati, a Gaza club where his talent quickly drew attention.
He later moved to the Al-Amari Youth Centre in the occupied West Bank, cementing his reputation as one of Palestine’s greatest forwards.
Wearing the national team’s colours, he made 24 appearances for Al-Fida’i, scoring twice, according to Transfermarkt.
His most famous strike came during the 2010 West Asian Football Federation Championship, a spectacular scissor kick against Yemen that still lives in the memories of fans.
Tragedy Amid Crisis
The war’s impact on Gaza’s sporting world is staggering.
Footballers, coaches, referees, administrators, and club officials have all been among the casualties. And the violence continues.
Since late May, more than 1,300 Palestinians have been killed near aid distribution points run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
On the same day al-Obeid was killed, at least 18 others died while seeking food, according to medical sources cited by Al Jazeera.
The hunger crisis deepens as Israel maintains tight restrictions on humanitarian supplies, leaving millions in urgent need and forcing many to risk their lives for basic necessities.
Source: YEN.com.gh
