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Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah has taken to social media to express his disappointment with UEFA's tribute to Palestinian footballer Suleiman al-Obeid, criticizing the organization for failing to mention the circumstances surrounding his tragic death. Al-Obeid, often referred to as the 'Palestinian Pelé,' passed away during a devastating incident while awaiting humanitarian aid.

The controversy stems from UEFA’s post, which acknowledged al-Obeid’s passing but omitted the crucial detail that he died in an Israeli attack. Salah, a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, felt that this omission was a significant oversight and a disservice to al-Obeid’s memory and the suffering of the Palestinian people.

“I was very saddened by the tribute published by UEFA to the Palestinian football legend Suleiman al-Obeid,” Salah wrote on his Instagram account. “While I appreciate the acknowledgement of his greatness, I believe it is important to remember the circumstances of his death. He was killed while waiting for humanitarian aid, a tragic consequence of the ongoing conflict.”

Suleiman al-Obeid, born in 1939, was a celebrated figure in Palestinian football. He was widely regarded as the greatest Palestinian footballer of all time, earning the nickname 'Palestinian Pelé' due to his exceptional skill and goal-scoring ability. He led his team, Balata Youth Center, to numerous championships and represented Palestine in the Asian Games.

His death, along with those of numerous other Palestinians, has highlighted the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on civilians. The incident occurred while al-Obeid was waiting for aid deliveries, underscoring the desperate humanitarian situation in the region.

Salah’s criticism of UEFA has resonated with many fans and supporters of Palestinian rights, who see it as a powerful statement of solidarity. The Liverpool forward has consistently used his platform to raise awareness about the plight of Palestinians, and his latest comments are further evidence of his commitment to the cause.

UEFA has yet to officially respond to Salah’s criticism. However, the pressure from the football community and public opinion may prompt the organization to reconsider its approach to acknowledging sensitive issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

This incident underscores the complexities of navigating sensitive political issues within the world of sports. While organizations like UEFA strive to remain neutral, the omission of crucial details in tributes can be perceived as insensitive and a failure to acknowledge the human cost of conflict. Salah’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of using one's voice to advocate for justice and remembrance, even on the global stage.

The outpouring of grief and tributes for Suleiman al-Obeid demonstrates the profound impact he had on Palestinian society and the wider football community. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of Palestinian footballers and serve as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.