Israeli soccer player Sagiv Jehezkel was detained in Turkey for allegedly inciting hatred after expressing solidarity with people held hostage by Hamas terrorists.
He was released pending trial, with conflicting reports on the accusations against him.
The player displayed a bandage with a message referencing a Hamas attack, leading to accusations of inciting public hatred. (Trending: Trump Responds To Biden’s Bombing In Yemen)
This gesture was condemned in Turkey, leading to his suspension from the team.
“I am not pro-war,” he told police. “I want this 100-day process to come to an end. I want the war to end.”
“I have never engaged in anything related to politics since my arrival,” Jehezkel added. “I have never disrespected anyone since the day I arrived. The point I wanted to draw attention to was [the need] for an end of the war.”
The incident sparked outrage in Israel, with officials calling for international action against Turkey.
“Whoever arrests a football player for a show of solidarity with 136 captives who are more than 100 days with the terrorists of a murderous terrorist organization, represents a culture of murder and hate,” Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said.
“In its actions, Turkey serves as Hamas’ executive arm,” Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant wrote.
Another Israeli player, Eden Karzev, is also under inquiry for a similar social media post.
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