Tragedy has struck the Palestinian soccer community as Ahmad Abu al-Atta, a defender for Al-Ahly Gaza, was killed alongside his family in an Israeli airstrike on their Gaza City home.
The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) confirmed the devastating loss, which also claimed the lives of his wife, Ruba Esmael Abu al-Atta, a medical professional, and their two children.
This heartbreaking incident is the latest in a series of tragic losses for Palestinian sports. Over 300 athletes, referees, and sports officials have fallen victim to the conflict since October 2023, with all sports facilities in Gaza destroyed.
The Palestinian Olympic Committee reports that at least 37,598 Palestinians have been killed and 86,032 injured in the ongoing military offensive.
The international soccer community has taken notice, with FIFA ordering an urgent legal evaluation of a proposal to suspend Israel from all competitions due to the war in Gaza. The Asian Football Confederation backs the proposal, and FIFA will address the issue in July.
Ahmad Abu al-Atta’s tragic fate serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the devastating impact on innocent lives, including those of athletes and their families. The soccer world mourns his loss and calls for peace and an end to the senseless violence.