Sagiv Jehezkel, 28yearold Antalyaspor striker, led a goal celebration that led to the termination of his contract, the launch of a criminal investigation and his arrest in Turkey. As an Israeli, he remembered the 100 days since the Hamas attack on his homeland. The act was widely condemned by Turks who support the Palestinian side in the conflict.
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Sagiv scored the goal that secured a 11 draw against Trabzonspor in the Turkish championship. He ran in front of the photographers and pointed to the message on the banner on his wrist: “100 Days 7/10.” In English, he recalled the 100 days since the attack on October 7 last year. Israeli hostages are still in Hamas custody.
1 of 1 Sagiv Jehezkel, Israeli player from Antalyaspor, celebrates a goal and remembers 100 days of the Hamas attack on Israel Photo: Disclosure/Antalyaspor Sagiv Jehezkel, Israeli player from Antalyaspor, celebrates a goal and remembers 100 days of Hamas attack on Israel Israel Photo: Disclosure/Antalyaspor
Antalyaspor's social networks published the picture and celebrated Sagiv's goal. However, after the game, the photo was deleted and the club released a statement from President Sinan Boztepe. The manager announced the termination of the contract with the Israeli striker.
I realized with sadness and surprise that Sagiv Jehezkel acted against the principles of Antalya, Antalyaspor and our country. The post immediately after the goal was shared on our club's official accounts and the issue was noticed immediately. It was abolished. I want the public to know that I will not allow such behavior said the President of Antalyaspor.
The Turkish Football Association also spoke out, saying in a statement that it supported the club's decision to sack the Israeli player and reiterated that “the public should have no doubt that the necessary measures must be taken against those responsible for this act be taken.” violates human dignity and the conscience of Turkish society.”
Sportsfocused newspapers Fanatik and Cumhuriyet reported that Jehezkel was arrested by local police for “inciting the public to hatred and hostility.” Turkish Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunç posted a message on social media announcing an investigation into the now former Antalyaspor player.
Antalya prosecutor's office has opened a judicial investigation against Israeli football player Sagiv Jehezkel for the crime of “publicly inciting the public to hatred and hostility” due to his ugly action in support of the massacre committed by Israel in Gaza after the goal scored in the Antalyaspor match x Trabzonspor one goal. I once again condemn the attacks of Israel, which has committed crimes against humanity by committing genocide in Gaza for more than 100 days, regardless of children or women, young or old. We will continue to support oppressed Palestinians.