Egypt Coach Hosam Hassan Raises Palestinian Flag, Urges Support for Palestinians Ahead of Argentina Match

Egypt's national football team coach Hosam Hassan celebrated the team's historic qualification to the FIFA World Cup round of 16 by raising a Palestinian flag on the Dallas stadium pitch, expressing solidarity with the situation in Gaza. Ahead of Egypt's match against Argentina scheduled for 19:00, Hassan reiterated his political stance during the official press conference. He stated, "If anyone in the world does not feel empathy for the Palestinian people, then they have lost part of their humanity." When asked if he would raise the flag again if Egypt wins, he emphasized that his actions were a human response, transcending religious or ethnic identity, and called on the global community to "please let the Palestinian people live."

Hassan appealed to athletes and journalists worldwide to help spread this message, highlighting the importance of discussing Palestinian civilian rights alongside human and animal rights. While FIFA regulations prohibit political messages as part of team equipment, Reuters reported there is no rule banning coaches from expressing political views during press conferences. Hassan also acknowledged the professional challenge ahead, recognizing Argentina as the reigning world champion and Lionel Messi as one of football's greatest players. Despite being underdogs, he expressed no fear and stressed the responsibility Egypt holds toward its nation, the Arab world, and Africa, which motivates the team to focus on their performance on the field.