Israeli Footballer Sagiv Jehezkel Faces Controversy in Turkey over Gaza Support Gesture

Israel: Israeli footballer Sagiv Jehezkel finds himself at the centre of a growing controversy in Turkey after displaying a message of support for Israeli hostages during a recent match. The incident has led to his exclusion from the Turkish club Antalyaspor and potential termination of his contract.

Sagiv Jehezkel, who scored an equalizing goal for Antalyaspor against Trabzonspor, revealed a Star of David and a message on a bandage covering his left wrist that read ‘100 days. 07/10’. This referred to the 100 days since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. The message of solidarity sparked a series of reactions and repercussions.

The Turkish club swiftly suspended Jehezkel, citing behaviour against the “national values” and his exclusion from the squad by the decision of the board of directors. The club’s president emphasized a commitment to not tolerate such behaviour, even if it jeopardizes championships or cups.

Jehezkel, who has since returned to Israel, was briefly detained by the Antalya police, and a legal process is ongoing to terminate his contract. FIFA regulations, which prohibit political, religious, or personal statements on players’ equipment, could also result in sanctions for Jehezkel.

The Israel Foreign Ministry reports 136 hostages being held by Hamas, and the situation remains tense between Israel and Gaza. A previous hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas in late November ended after six days, with more than 100 individuals freed. Israel believes that 107 hostages are still being held in Gaza, along with the bodies of 25 who are deceased.

Jehezkel’s gesture is not the first time a soccer player has faced controversy over the Israel-Gaza conflict. Turkish club Istanbul Basaksehir is conducting a disciplinary investigation into another Israeli player, Eden Karzev, for a social media post related to the conflict.

The incident has broader implications as other footballers worldwide have faced sanctions for expressing views on the Israel-Gaza conflict. FIFA has yet to comment on Jehezkel’s case, and the Turkish Football Association has initiated a disciplinary process.

As tensions persist, the incident highlights the intersection of sports and political sensitivities, raising questions about the limits of expression for athletes and the consequences they face when engaging in such gestures.