IDF Reveals 12 Gaza Football Figures Killed Were Terror Operatives

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) disclosed that 12 individuals in Gaza, previously known as football players, referees, and coaches, were actually operatives in terrorist organizations Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). This revelation comes amid recent false claims that the IDF deliberately targeted innocent Palestinian footballers during the conflict.

Among those killed was Mohammad Sami Mohammad Khattab, a FIFA international assistant referee who officiated in West Asian championships and international matches. Following his death, the Asian Football Confederation issued condolences, and a French parliamentarian called for a moment of silence in his honor. Another individual, Ahmad Abu Al-Ata, played as a defender for several Gaza clubs including Ittihad Al-Shuja'iya, Al-Tufah, and Al-Ahli Gaza. In June 2026, the PIJ military wing publicly identified him as a platoon commander.

The IDF emphasized that these individuals were often presented internationally solely as sports figures, obscuring their terrorist affiliations. This tactic was part of broader misinformation campaigns portraying militants as civilians such as journalists or aid workers to falsely accuse Israel of targeting non-combatants. The IDF’s official website published the names and roles of these 12 sports figures to clarify their involvement in terror activities.

This disclosure aims to counteract narratives accusing Israel of intentionally attacking Palestinian sports personnel and to expose the use of civilian covers by militants in Gaza. The IDF continues to investigate and reveal such cases as part of its ongoing military operations in the region.