Gaza:Gaza's sporting community is working to revive sports activities following a devastating three-year conflict that claimed the lives of over 1,000 athletes and severely damaged sports infrastructure.
According to Anadolu Agency, the secretary-general of the Palestinian Sports Media Federation, Mustafa Siam, emphasized that the revival of sports in Gaza is crucial not only for resuming competitions but also for aiding the psychological and social recovery of children and young people who have endured years of genocide.
Since October 2023, Palestinian sports have suffered extensive damage, with more than 265 sports facilities completely or partially destroyed. During the conflict, 1,014 Palestinian sports figures, including players, referees, coaches, and administrators linked to the Palestinian Football Association, were killed. Notable among them were international player Suleiman Obeid and Olympic team coach Hani al-Masdar, both victims of Israeli actions.
Following a ceasefire agreement in October 2025, the Palestinian Football Association began collaborating with clubs in Gaza to devise a plan to restore sports activities. Four tournaments have been organized for senior and youth players, along with a beach soccer tournament, aiming to restore hope and the spirit of young athletes facing difficult circumstances.
Siam highlighted the importance of these initiatives in sending a message to the world affirming Palestinian youth's right to participate in sports. Additionally, the Palestinian Football Association launched the Phoenix Cubs center in May 2024 to support displaced children in Gaza City and the central governorate, emphasizing the role of sports in the psychological and social development of children.
Siam also addressed the growing need for support among children and young people who became amputees during the conflict, noting an increase in the number of amputees in Gaza. He stressed the necessity of providing prosthetic limbs, rehabilitation services, and sports equipment to help these individuals return to sports and potentially represent Palestine internationally.
Criticism was directed at international sports institutions for their inaction regarding Israel's violations affecting Palestinian athletes and infrastructure. The Palestinian Football Association has called for the suspension of Israel's membership in international sports federations since 2013, but no decision has been made. Siam urged international bodies to support Palestinian sports and uphold the athletes' right to compete globally.
Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 74,000 Palestinians have been killed, and more than 175,000 injured, with approximately 90% of Gaza's infrastructure destroyed, according to Palestinian sources.