Israeli footballer Sagiv Jehezkel, playing for Antalyaspor, faced legal and professional repercussions in Turkey following a solidarity gesture towards the hostages held in Gaza. After scoring in a match on Sunday, Jehezkel displayed a bandage around his wrist with a message marking 100 days since the Hamas attacks against Israel on October 7. This action led to his arrest on charges of inciting hatred, though he has since been released from custody and is reportedly returning to Israel.
The incident has sparked significant controversy in Turkey, where public sentiment is largely against Israel’s military actions in Gaza and supportive of the Palestinian cause. Turkish Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc labeled Jehezkel’s gesture as supportive of the “Israeli massacre in Gaza,” while Antalyaspor suspended the player and is considering terminating his contract. The Turkish Football Federation also condemned the act for disturbing the conscience of the Turkish public.
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant accused Turkey of acting as a “de facto executive arm of Hamas” over Jehezkel’s arrest. Gallant criticized Turkey’s response, especially in light of Israel’s assistance to Turkey following last year’s earthquake, calling the treatment of Jehezkel hypocritical and ungrateful.
During police questioning, Jehezkel denied any intent to provoke, as reported by the DHA news agency. He emphasized his desire for the end of the war, stating, “I am not pro-war. I want this 100-day process to come to an end. I want the war to end.” He also insisted on his apolitical stance and respectfulness since his arrival in Turkey.
The incident highlights the complex interplay of sports, politics, and international relations, reflecting the deep-seated tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
