Israeli minister publicly threatens football player

Hakim Ziyech, a star player for Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca, received a public threat from Itamar Ben-Gvir, the Israeli Minister of National Security, due to the player’s support for Palestinian prisoners on social media.

The English-language version of the Moroccan news website Morocco World News reported on Tuesday that Ziyech posted a picture of Ben-Gvir on his Instagram account, accompanied by questions about the legal and moral justifications for the law allowing the execution of Palestinian prisoners. He questioned whether this law would also be justified under the pretext of “self-defense.”

In a direct response, Ben-Gvir attacked the Moroccan player, describing him as “anti-Semitic,” adding that his country “will no longer deal cautiously with its enemies.” He also mentioned changes he claimed to have implemented in prisons since taking office and affirmed his intention to enforce the new law.

This escalation comes amid growing controversy following the Israeli occupation authorities’ approval, in late March, of a law allowing the execution of Palestinian prisoners. This sparked widespread criticism from international and Palestinian human rights organizations, which warned of its repercussions on the conditions of thousands of detainees in Israeli prisons.

Ziyech is known for his support of the Palestinian cause. He has consistently expressed his solidarity through his publications and media statements, as well as appearing on several occasions raising the Palestinian flag, which has made him the target of repeated criticism from Israeli quarters.

Hakim Ziyech played in the English Premier League for Chelsea, where he won the 2021 UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Featured image via ChelseaFC