December 25, (THEWILL) – This Christmas brings no joy for Liverpool, forward Mohamed Salah, as he shares the grief of families suffering from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The bloody war has now killed over 20,400 Palestinians and displaced almost all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.
The rising death toll of 156 Israeli soldiers since the October ground offensive further threatens public support for military action initially sparked when Hamas militants killed 1,200 Israelis and took 240 hostages on October 7.
“Christmas is a time when families get together and celebrate. With the brutal war going on in the Middle East, especially the death and destruction in Gaza, this year we get to celebrate Christmas with very heavy hearts and we share the pain of those families, who are grieving the loss of their loved ones,” Salah wrote. “Please do not forget them and do not get used to their suffering. Merry Christmas.”
The Egyptian footballer, enjoying a prolific season with 12 English Premier League goals for table-topping Liverpool, implored the public not to overlook Gaza’s plight amidst the usual holiday cheer. His heartfelt message highlights the grim reality for thousands this December 25.
As children and their families across the world excitedly celebrate Christmas, the people of Gaza face a tragic holiday bereaved of loved ones and stripped of home comforts. Salah hopes his platform can lend a voice to forgotten victims of conflict half a world away.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
