Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar has been killed in the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) said, alleging he died after Israeli army fire earlier this week.
In a statement, the PFA said Al-Ashqar was killed by Israeli forces but did not provide further details about the circumstances of his death.
The association said Al-Ashqar was among hundreds of Palestinian sports figures who have been killed since the war in Gaza began in October 2023. It added that more than 1,000 Palestinian athletes have lost their lives during the conflict.
According to the PFA, the 32-year-old goalkeeper had married five months ago, and his wife is expecting their first child.
His death prompted an outpouring of condolences from family members, teammates and the wider football community.
Chilean football club Deportivo Palestino also paid tribute to Al-Ashqar, expressing sorrow over his death and calling for justice and peace.
The Israeli military had not immediately commented on the PFA`s statement.
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