Suleiman al-Obeid, a former player for the Palestine national football team and widely known as the "Palestinian Pelé", has been killed by Israeli gunfire in the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) has confirmed.

The 41-year-old was reportedly shot dead on August 7 when Israeli forces "targeted people waiting for humanitarian aid in the southern Gaza Strip", according to a statement from the PFA.

Why was he called the Palestinian Pelé?

Obeid began his footballing career with Khadamat al-Shati, a local club in Gaza, before going on to represent Markaz Shabab al-Am’ari in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Sport. Across his club career, he scored over 100 goals—earning him the nickname "Pelé" for his prolific style and goal-scoring ability.

He made his international debut for Palestine in 2007 and went on to earn 24 caps, scoring twice. Among his most memorable moments on the field was a stunning scissors-kick goal against Yemen during the 2010 West Asian Football Federation Championship, as per an ESPN report.

"During his long career, Al-Obeid scored more than 100 goals, making him one of the brightest stars of Palestinian football," the PFA said.

Barriers beyond the pitch

Despite his footballing success, Obeid’s career was not without hardship. While living in the West Bank in 2010, he was among six Gaza-based national team players prevented from crossing the Jordanian border en route to a friendly in Mauritania. The official reason cited was the lack of renewed special permits required to play in the West Bank.

In an interview with AFP at the time, Obeid expressed his frustration. "When I heard that we would be forbidden from travelling I was very upset, because any athlete dreams of wearing his national jersey in international forums.”

“We want to be able to travel freely with our families, just like athletes anywhere else in the world," he added.

Born in Gaza City, Obeid was married and the father of five children.

Mohamed Salah questions UEFA tribute

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has publicly challenged UEFA’s farewell message to former Palestinian footballer Suleiman al-Obeid, who was reportedly shot dead by Israeli forces while waiting for humanitarian aid in Gaza.

Responding on the social platform X to UEFA’s tribute post, which read, “Farewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the ‘Palestinian Pele.’ A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times,” Salah asked: “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?”

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) had earlier shared a letter attributed to UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, in which he wrote: “I was deeply saddened by the tragic death” of Obeid, adding that he was “more than just a footballer. He was proof that joy, skill, and pride can flourish despite suffering. His talent and dedication to the game gave the children of Gaza and beyond reason to believe in a brighter tomorrow. His passing is a great loss to the world of football and to everyone who understands the power of sport to inspire.”

Israeli military responds

Israeli military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani responded to Salah’s post on X, stating: “Hey Mohamed, After an initial review, we found no records of any incidents involving Suleiman al-Obeid. In order to take a closer look, we need more details.

Humanitarian crisis claims a national icon

Obeid’s death comes as Gaza continues to suffer through a worsening humanitarian crisis. The PFA said Obeid’s death brings to 662 the number of Palestinian athletes and sporting officials killed since the 22-month war started.

His death has prompted widespread mourning among Palestinian fans and sporting communities, who remember him not only as a footballing icon but also as a symbol of resilience and national pride.