Egypt coach sparks Israel anger with Gaza solidarity at World Cup event

Egypt's national football coach Hossam Hassan has ignited a firestorm of debate with his public expressions of solidarity with Gaza. Following Egypt's historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16, Hassan dedicated the achievement to the Palestinian people and controversially raised the Palestinian flag. These actions have drawn sharp criticism in Israel, with media outlets like Yedioth Ahronoth accusing him of using a global platform to renew his support.

“

If there is anyone in this world who does not feel the suffering of the Palestinian people, they have lost an essential part of their humanity, regardless of their nationality, religion, or background - whether Arab, European, American, or from anywhere else.

Speaking at a press conference in the United States, Hassan passionately defended his position. He questioned the humanity of anyone who could remain indifferent to the suffering in Gaza, drawing a parallel to the global outcry over harm to animals. "We all sympathize when an animal is harmed... So what should the response be when thousands of people are killed every day?" he asked.

“

We all sympathize when an animal is harmed. Human rights organizations and animal welfare groups respond, and the entire world condemns it. So what should the response be when thousands of people are killed every day?

Hassan painted a stark picture of the conditions in Gaza, contrasting the relative comfort of his own life with the daily struggles of families living in tents without food or shelter. He urged those in positions of authority to imagine enduring even a single day in such circumstances. He called the situation "a stain on the conscience of the entire world" and implored the global community to recognize that "the Palestinian people deserve to live."

“

We live in safe homes, sheltered by air conditioning in the summer and warmth in the winter. We have food and water whenever we want. Meanwhile, children and families there live in tents through the summer heat and winter cold, without shelter to protect them. Children have nothing to eat, and families face illness, hunger, and fear every day.

While Israeli media reported anger over Hassan's continued solidarity, his remarks resonated deeply across Arab social media. Users praised him as a true humanitarian and a brother. Experts interviewed by Asharq Al-Awsat offered differing views on the intersection of sports and politics, with some arguing for separation and others deeming it unrealistic, noting that such messages anger Israel while encouraging oppressed peoples.

“

Please, let your message be that the Palestinian people deserve to live.