Egypt Coach Hossam Hassan Urges Global Support for Palestinians Ahead of World Cup Match

Hossam Hassan, the coach of Egypt's national football team, used a FIFA press conference on Monday to express his strong support for the Palestinian people. Speaking ahead of Egypt's round of 16 World Cup match against Argentina, Hassan, who led Egypt to this stage after defeating Australia, was asked about his previous gesture of waving the Palestinian flag and whether he would do so again. He responded, "If a person anywhere in the world does not feel the pain of the Palestinian people, then they have lost part of their humanity." Hassan emphasized that his message was a human one, transcending religious or ethnic identity, and called on athletes and journalists worldwide to help spread the plea: "Let the Palestinian people live."

Hassan further highlighted the importance of addressing human rights universally, stating that the plight of Palestinian civilians is a shame for the entire world, not just the Arab world, and criticized decision-makers for abandoning innocent people. Alongside his political message, Hassan acknowledged Egypt's underdog status against the reigning world champions Argentina but expressed confidence and a sense of responsibility representing Egypt, the Arab world, and Africa. He said, "We are not afraid. This responsibility makes us focus on what we can do on the pitch."

His remarks come amid ongoing debates about political expressions during the World Cup. FIFA regulations prohibit political messages on players' equipment, but according to Reuters, there is no explicit rule forbidding coaches from sharing political views during official press conferences.