Mother of Israeli Soldier Killed in Hamas Captivity Criticizes Lionel Messi for Refusing to Help Hostage Families

Maayan Sherman, mother of Ron Sherman who was killed by Israeli fire while held captive by Hamas, publicly criticized Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi for refusing her family's request to assist families of hostages. In a social media post on Monday, she expressed deep disappointment, saying Messi "turned out to be just a flea," contrasting with her late son's admiration for him from age three until his death. She revealed that Messi declined to respond to a plea from Ron's father, Alex Sherman, to support the Argentine families of hostages.

Maayan Sherman also praised the Argentine president and ambassador for their significant support during her family's ordeal, noting that the ambassador made them feel at home and attended Ron's funeral. She highlighted that Ron's kidnapping was widely covered in Argentina partly due to his family connection to renowned Argentine singer León Gieco, his uncle. However, she lamented Messi's lack of involvement, emphasizing that it was fortunate Ron did not know about Messi's refusal.

The post underscores the emotional toll on families of hostages and fallen soldiers, and the expectations placed on prominent figures like Messi to use their influence in humanitarian causes. The incident occurred amid ongoing tensions and conflict involving Hamas and Israel, with Ron Sherman’s death a tragic example of the human cost.

No further response from Messi or his representatives has been reported. The Sherman family continues to receive support from Argentine and Israeli officials as they mourn and seek justice for Ron.