Hapoel Jerusalem Faces Backlash After Youth Players Photographed in Palestinian Flag Jerseys

A controversy erupted at Hapoel Jerusalem after three youth players traveled to a football tournament in Europe wearing jerseys designed with Palestinian flags, alongside players from other clubs. The photo circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage among parents in the club's youth division. The club stated that the children were dressed in those uniforms without prior approval and that the team was not informed about the matter.

One of the fathers, a local resident, expressed his anger, saying the children were turned into "tools in a political game." He explained that the trip's sole purpose was participation in an academy tournament and that he had no idea the situation would escalate politically. The father also shared that he had a difficult conversation with the tournament organizers and described the emotional toll on the children, especially given the challenges of being Arab youth in Israel.

He urged other parents to talk to their children to clarify that there was no intention to cause harm and emphasized the kids' pride in being part of Hapoel Jerusalem. The club confirmed that the parents of the three players contacted the youth department manager, Lior Hujeh, distressed by the incident. Hapoel Jerusalem is investigating the case and called for understanding, noting the children were exploited and should not bear the burden of the conflict.